Chile made significant progress in its agricultural trade with India after India approved the first test shipments using cold treatment during transit, a crucial method for maintaining trade during fruit fly outbreaks.
Although Chile is recognized internationally as a pest-free country, cold treatment, which involves keeping fruit at controlled temperatures during transit, is a widely accepted measure in demanding markets that ensures safe shipments without relying on chemicals.
In this context, Minister of Agriculture Ignacia Fernández stated that India's adoption of this measure was vital for preserving Chilean exports and avoiding disruptions. "This is a major advancement for producers and exporters, offering increased health and commercial stability. For Indian consumers, it guarantees access to fresh, safe, and high-quality Chilean fruit," she said.
"These developments boost India's confidence in the national health system and strengthen agricultural ties between the two countries, opening the way for future expansions of this measure," added the Secretary of State, who highlighted that this milestone complements the recent approval of the animal health certificate permitting the export of raw and processed wool from Chile.
This year, SAG, Odepa, and the Agricultural Attaché's Office in India collaborated to provide the technical details of the Chilean system and formally seek approval. Indian authorities responded positively, approving pilot shipments under cold treatment on November 18, 2025. This authorization encompasses a wide range of Chilean fruits, including cherries, stone fruits, apples, pears, and citrus.
For more information:
SAG
www.sag.gob.cl
