Exceptional returns for Chilean cherry growers
An analysis from Fedefruta revealed that in the third week of the year cherry growers received US$ 7.15 per kilo from exporters; a much higher figure than last year, when growers received US$ 4.07 per kilo. The fruit’s shipments went to markets such as China, North America and Europe.
The increase in prices was due to the high overseas demand for Chilean cherries because of their calibre and exceptional quality, which was the result of ideal weather conditions that favoured its development during November and December.
Now, "while Fedefruta’s analysis reveals excellent returns, we noted large differences in the amounts paid by different exporters to fruit growers, so this analysis is very useful for cherry producers when hiring an exporting service," says Alfredo Garcia, Fedefruta manager of studies, adding that each producer’s situation largely depends on the exporting company with which he worked, the destination market, the fruit’s date of shipping, the calibre and quality, among other factors. "That's why we invite all growers to come to us for a review of the exporting conditions they hired."
Three out of four Chilean cherries ended up in Asia
Chilean cherry exports increased this season by 32% compared to last year despite some frosts, registering a record 14.65 million boxes shipped. Asia also received 75% of Chile’s cherry exports, mainly due to the Chinese New Year, celebrated on 31 January; a celebration during which China’s inhabitants tend to indulge in cherries, as they are a symbol of fortune and joy. North America, meanwhile, represented just 13% of the total, although according to Odepa, the volume of exports to this market grew by 23%.
Chile’s cherry production extends from the Metropolitan Region to Chile Chico, in Aysen. At present, the country is the world’s second largest exporter and the largest in the Southern Hemisphere.
Source: Fedefruta