The Chilean agricultural industry is still feeling the effects of September's frosts. Kiwis, which are produced all year round, were one of the most affected crops, and according to the Kiwi Committee, only 40% of the volume for export initially estimated will be available during the 2014 campaign.
"60% of the production was lost, we estimate that we handled around 215,000 tonnes last year, but this season that figure will drop to approximately 86,000," said Carlos Cruzat, president of the Kiwi Committee.
Nevertheless, not everything is negative, as the fruit shortages and great international demand should lead to higher prices.
According to information posted on the website of the Committee, Juan Ovalle, director of the institution, states that prices should increase by around 30%, which "will be beneficial for producers, even if these higher prices will not fully compensate the losses suffered."
Lastly, Cruzat put special emphasis on the fact that, despite the situation, exporters will still be required to meet the same standards, as maintaining the good reputation achieved by Chile's produce in recent years is a priority.