Chile's last garlic season, which runs from the end of October to mid-February, ended with positive results. The 2024-2025 season exceeded expectations in both yields and prices.
"Production and prices were good, with a 20% increase over the previous season. The weather was decisive. We experienced a neutral period without El Niño and La Niña, which allowed us to have normal temperatures. This was followed by a cold winter, characterized by more than 600 cold hours and no rain during the harvest season. All this favored the quality of garlic, specifically of the Chinese purple variety, the only variety we grow," stated Nelson Cordero Arevalo, the general manager of Comercializadora y Exportadora NCA.
The primary export market was Mexico, which accounted for approximately 90% of the volume exported by NCA. Shipments were also made to Brazil and Spain. "Each container (28 in total) carried around 2,200 boxes of 10 kilos, with prices ranging from 30 to 33 dollars per box, well above the 24-25 dollars recorded in the previous season. This rebound is attributed to the shortage of garlic in Mexico and Spain, and the attractiveness of fresh Chilean garlic compared to the chamber garlic that is consumed in the northern hemisphere during winter," he stated.
"There were also some setbacks. Logistics was one of this season's biggest drawbacks. The lack of container availability and delays in the removal of goods at Mexican ports impacted the pace of deliveries. Goods were detained for up to 15 days at the port, which affected our customers and complicated the supply chain," Cordero stated.
Expectations for the coming season are marked by uncertainty. We anticipate a transition to a La Niña climate phase, which could bring cooler temperatures and less rain, conditions that favor garlic production. On the commercial side, however, the trend could be downwards. "The increase in production in Chile, Peru, and Argentina -motivated by previous good prices- together with a 30% to 40% drop in Chinese garlic prices, could put pressure on the international market," he stressed.
"Our focus is on improving service and quality for current customers, more than expanding markets," Cordero concluded, making it clear that, although Chilean garlic is enjoying a good moment, the future will depend on careful management in the face of global changes.
For more information:
Nelson Cordero Arévalo
NCA - Comercializadora y Exportadora
Quinta de Tilco
Sexta Región, Chile
Tel.: +56 9 5228 0382
Email: [email protected]