Record-Breaking Season for Chilean Stone Fruit Exports Despite Challenges
The 2023/24 season has proven to be a pivotal one for Chile’s stone fruit industry, marked by record-breaking export volumes and FOB (Free on Board) values. Despite facing various market challenges, the industry has achieved significant growth, showcasing its resilience and capacity for recovery.
Impressive Export Milestones
According to the Chilean Stone Fruit Committee, the latest season ended with a remarkable milestone: a record of 36.5 million cartons of stone fruit exported worldwide, representing an 18% increase compared to the previous year. In terms of FOB values, there was a notable 14% growth, reaching a total of USD 519 million. Iván Marambio, President of Frutas de Chile, emphasized, “This growth marks a new era and recovery for the Chilean stone fruit industry.”
Breakdown by Fruit Types
The performance varied across different types of stone fruit, each contributing to the overall success:
- Japanese Plums: Exported 13,959,016 cartons (7 kg each), a 24% increase from the previous season.
- Nectarines: Exported 11.6 million cartons (8 kg each), marking a 14% increase.
- European Plums (Sugar Plums): Exported 8.1 million cartons (9 kg each), a 23% rise.
- Peaches: Experienced a slight decline of 2%, with 2.8 million cartons (8 kg each) exported.
- Apricots: Achieved significant growth with 0.1 million cartons exported, a 48% increase over the previous season.
Market Leadership
Chilean stone fruit has achieved prominent positions in the global market, particularly in FOB values. The Executive Director of the Chilean Stone Fruit Committee highlighted that between 2014 and 2023, Chile ranked second globally in stone fruit FOB values. Chilean fresh plums notably hold the top position worldwide in FOB values, underscoring their high demand and market value. Additionally, Chile’s nectarine exports are first in the southern hemisphere and fifth globally in terms of FOB values.
The 2023/24 season’s record achievements in Chilean stone fruit exports underscore the industry’s resilience and adaptability. Despite facing market challenges, the significant increases in both export volumes and FOB values highlight the sector’s growth potential and its vital role in the global fruit market. Moving forward, Chile’s stone fruit industry is well-positioned to continue its upward trajectory, leveraging its strengths in quality and market reach.
