The Chilean Fruit Table Grapes Committee released its first export forecast for the 2025-26 season, estimating 63.3 million 8.2 kg standard boxes. This represents a 6.9 percent decline from the previous season.
"The decrease is due to an acceleration in varietal replacement, a process that is not enough to compensate for the traditional varieties," stated Ignacio Caballero, the Committee's executive director.
According to the report, new varieties will account for 71% of total shipments, up from 67% last season. In total, new varieties are expected to exceed 44.9 million boxes, traditional varieties 8.7 million boxes, and Red Globe 9.5 million boxes.
The estimate was based on data supplied by the companies linked to the Committee, which together accounted for 83% of Chilean table grape exports last season.
"This season, white varieties will increase their share, accounting for 40% of total shipments, while varieties such as Red Globe will lose ground, with a 15% decrease to 9.5 million boxes," Caballero emphasized.
The report states that white varieties will surpass 25.1 million boxes, red varieties (excluding Red Globe) will total 23.3 million, and black varieties will stand at approximately 4.9 million boxes.
The sector expects to ship 18.4 million boxes of new red varieties, led by Timco, Allison, and Sweet Celebration. White varieties will reach 22.8 million, with Arra 15, Timpson, and Sweet Globe at the forefront. Black varieties may exceed 4 million, dominated by Sweet Favors, Sable, and Sweet Sapphire.
The report indicates a general decline in production area, especially in Coquimbo and Valparaiso, which have a larger relative share. Additionally, there is an expected increase in departures from weeks 6 to 10, though the volume peaks will be lower than in the previous season.
Shipments to Latin America are expected to increase by 14%, while shipments to Asia and North America are projected to decrease by 18% and 9%, respectively.
Source: frutasdechile.cl
