Despite being the most exported product of the Region of Coquimbo in 2017, with 131 million dollars, grape exports decreased by 39% when compared to the previous year (US $219 million). This data portrays the serious problems that grapes in the area have been facing. The drought, subsequent frosts, low profitability, and even the competition with the Peruvian market, have producers of this fruit worried about their future.
In fact, the most productive variety in the region, the Flame variety, is in critical condition. It is not being received in the United States due to the emergence of more resistant varieties. Last year it had the lowest return price of the last decade.
"At this moment, small producers are faced with a complex problem regarding grape prices at destination. We have other bigger problems, such as the recurrent drought and other issues of the sort... but what currently complicates things are the grape's prices," said the former regional councilor and producer of this fruit in Diaguitas, Pablo Muñoz.
Currently the area has 2,400 hectares of Flame variety, which export around four million boxes a year.
"This year, despite the fact that the liquidations by the exporters have not yet arrived, we have indications that the prices of the grapes destined for the United States will be as bad as last year," he added.
"The buyers in North America practically did not want to receive the Flame variety, and they've signalled that they won't receive this variety this year. Their explanation is that consumers preference has changed and that they now prefer new varieties that are more attractive and have a higher caliber. Additionally, this variety is more likely to present health problems," said Muñoz.
He also added that the conversion of the Flame into raisins, could be a feasible option for export.
Citrus crops: an alternative
Due to the numerous problems that grape growers have had to face, they have begun to look towards other areas. One of their options is to start planting citrus fruits. Traditional vine orchards in the provinces of Elqui and Limari have already started to grow mandarins and clementines.
"Small producers are thinking about transitioning from grapes to citrus fruits. The truth is that even large producers are already doing so. They have diversified the matrix a little and no longer just plant grapes (...) right now, mandarins are regarded as a more interesting option," he stated.
Source: semanarioeltiempo.cl