Chile’s stone fruit sector celebrated a successful 2023-2024 season marked by record-breaking exports in both volume and FOB (Free on Board) values, despite facing notable challenges. This sector encompasses Japanese plums, European plums (Sugar Plums), nectarines, peaches, and damasks, each contributing to Chile’s export prowess.
Export Performance Highlights
Volume Milestone: Chile exported a record 36.5 million boxes of fresh stone fruit, reflecting an impressive 18% increase compared to the previous year.
Value Increase: The export value surged by 14%, reaching a total of $519 million, underscoring the sector’s economic impact and recovery.
Market Dynamics
China: As the primary market, exports to China saw a substantial 25% increase in volume. However, the increase in FOB value was more modest at 5%, highlighting pricing challenges in this critical market.
United States: Despite a slight 1% decrease in volume, exports to the United States saw a significant 20% increase in value, indicating higher pricing or premium product exports.
Product-Specific Growth
Japanese Plums: Experienced robust growth of 24%, with key markets including China, the United States, and Brazil.
Nectarines: Noteworthy growth of 14%, with a particular highlight on white-pulp nectarines. Main destinations included China, the United States, and the Netherlands.
European Plums: Showcased a remarkable 23% growth, primarily exported to China.
Peaches and Damasks: Also demonstrated variations in export volumes, contributing to the overall sector growth.
Industry Perspective
Iván Marambio, president of Frutas de Chile, emphasized the season’s milestone achievements and the sector’s recovery. He highlighted the strategic importance of international markets and the growing demand for Chilean stone fruits worldwide.
Future Outlook
Ignacio Caballero, executive director of Frutas de Chile’s Stone Fruit Committee, noted ongoing challenges, especially in China, despite the positive export figures. He underscored the importance of promotional campaigns to boost consumption and enhance awareness of the health benefits associated with Chilean stone fruits, particularly in key markets like Asia.
Conclusion
The 2023-2024 season marked a period of significant growth and recovery for Chile’s stone fruit industry, driven by increased export volumes and values. While challenges persist, particularly in pricing dynamics with major markets like China, the sector’s resilience and strategic initiatives bode well for its continued global positioning and expansion efforts.
Expert Insight
The Stone Fruit Committee’s executive director highlighted Chile’s consistent performance in FOB values globally, underscoring the sector’s competitiveness and potential for sustained growth through strategic market engagements and promotional activities.