US importers say heavier volumes of nectarines arriving from Chile won't be expected for several more weeks. Supplies have been light in the early weeks as importers wait for improved production and shipment volumes. It was reported that in 2018, Chile exported a total of 65,000 MT of nectarines, however this year the season has started more slowly.
"Supplies of Chilean nectarines have been light so far in January, however it has been close to what we typically see at this stage of the season," said one East Coast importer. "We expect to see a substantial increase in volume and also better sizing through February and into March, which is when shipments finish for the year. Our growers tell us that production has been generally light this month, resulting in a lack of volume coming into the US. So far, 95 percent of what we are importing are the yellow flesh variety."
Market higher
At this early stage of the Chilean import season, the market is relatively strong, given the slower start and lighter supplies. Prices are good and importers are predicting that they will stay that way for now. Once more volume enters the market, prices should ease back.
"The market is on the high side right now because of the lower production," the importer observed. "Pricing currently ranges from $16-$18 on smaller fruit, up to $20-$24 on larger nectarines. This is quite typical for January and we likely see prices come down after more volume arrives in the next month."