Chilean plums have seen a notable increase in exports, with a 40% growth from October 2022 to September 2023. During the "Chile Week China," an agreement was reached between the Ciruelas Chile association and the Chinese supermarket chain Freshippo, allowing for the direct exportation of these fruits to the retailer's outlets. Freshippo, part of the Alibaba Group, ranks among the top five retailers in China, boasting over 400 supermarkets across 28 cities. This collaboration follows a visit by Freshippo executives to Chile in September, where they toured plum fields in the O'Higgins region, aiming to streamline the shipment of agricultural products.
Ignacio Fernández, ProChile's general director, expressed satisfaction with the agreement, emphasizing the importance of public-private partnerships and their effectiveness in promoting Chilean products in China. Jesús de la Riva, president of the Ciruelas Chile association, remarked on the significance of this direct connection with consumers, which ensures quality standards and fair pricing throughout the supply chain. Initially, 15 containers of plums will be sent to Freshippo stores in the upcoming season to assess logistical and quality parameters.
The economic seminar during Chile Week in Hangzhou saw participation from Freshippo and China Eastern Logistics representatives, who shared success stories of working with Chilean products. Additionally, protocols were signed to facilitate the export of fresh fruit and pork meat to China through third-country ports and airports. China remains the leading market for Chilean fruit and meat exports, with plums alone generating US$209 million in exports between October 2022 and September 2023.
Source: America Economia