When Frutas de Chile's Citrus Committee was established in 2010, the country exported 139,000 tons of citrus. Thirteen years later, in 2023, the country exported 400,420 tons. This is 49% more than in the previous season when exports amounted to 268,100 tons. This boom is largely attributed to the opening of the Japanese market for Chilean lemon in 1996, a milestone that multiplied export figures by 40.
According to Juan Enrique Ortúzar, the committee's president, the industry has experienced accelerated growth and it now faces a point of maturation that will limit its future expansion. The sector has had to rethink its growth strategies thanks to the stabilization of planting trends and challenges such as drought. Most of Chile's citrus exports go to the US, underscoring the importance of understanding supply and demand dynamics in this market.
The Citrus Committee has focused on opening new markets such as China, Brazil, and Mexico. It recently achieved certification of Chilean lemons under the Systems Approach for the US, offering an export alternative that avoids fumigation with methyl bromide and promises higher quality fruits and post-harvest life. Ortuzar emphasizes the importance of maintaining a market presence through consistency in quality and shipments.
The Chilean citrus industry has focused on solving common issues and improving productivity and competitiveness. Adopting new technologies and management practices throughout the production and export chain is crucial to increase yields and reduce costs. The committee has promoted innovative research projects to improve market entry conditions and optimize orchard management.
Short- and medium-term challenges include adapting to size requirements in late mandarins, managing water scarcity, and selecting new seedless citrus varieties. Sustainability and greener solutions to fight and control pests and diseases are priorities. They reflect the growing market demand for sustainable agricultural practices.
In short, the Chilean citrus industry is at an inflection point, where maintaining quality, innovation, and sustainability will be key to ensuring its future in an increasingly competitive global market.
Source: redagricola.com