Chile: Grapes exports lower than last season

Although the acreage decreased in 2013/2014, this decline seems to have stabilised since 2015/2016. For the 2017/2018 season, the ticker is standing at 48 202 hectares. These Chilean table grapes have to compete with an ever-decreasing profit margin. This is due to the increased worldwide competition. When it comes to demand, quality, size, and new varieties play a prominent role. Growers are faced with the realisation that they need to replace old vines with new varieties. This calls for a significant investment of funds. However, in the mid and longterm, these varieties are more profitable.

In the northern regions of Atacama and Coquimbo, the first grapes are harvested from November and December. Long periods of drought means sufficient water is a problem in these areas. The 2017/2018 season was, however, characterised by adequate winter rainfall. This resulted in well-filled reservoirs, which means secure irrigation for the next five years.

North America is the grapes' most important market. Exports in 2016/2017 totalled 344 180 tonnes. This is 47% of the total Chilean grape exports. This season, the total is at 731 156 tonnes - 6,4% higher than in 2015/2016.

In 2017/2018, export decreased by 24,38% when compared to the previous year. April was expected to see a peak in exports. In the first three weeks of April, exports came to 190 000 tonnes, more than April 2017. Then, they totalled 184 000 tonnes. Still, it is estimated that the exports will total only 720 000 tonnes. This is a drop of 1,5%.