The Chilean kiwifruit industry is gearing up for a better export performance during 2010, following the difficulties of last season which was hampered by high stocks on major Northern Hemisphere markets, according to the latest report from SimFRUIT.
Exports in 2010 are expected to increase by 6 per cent to 194,649 tonnes despite some alterations to the forecast following February’s earthquake, which affected Chile’s central regions, where some of the most important kiwifruit orchards are located.
Sendings to Europe will increase by 6.5 per cent, SimFRUIT said, up from 117.545 tonnes last season. European marketing conditions are reportedly good, due to a reduced offer of Italian kiwifruit (especially large sizes) and the light recovery in sales and prices during recent weeks.
Chile’s early kiwifruit crop is also expected to be well received on the US market given that Italian kiwifruit volume has started to decline and Californian offer is also very low.
SimFRUIT estimates prices in the US will surpass last year’s US$17.5 per box of fruit (sizes 30-39). That said, SimFRUIT claims suppliers may attempt to send as much fruit as possible (given the larger crop) before the arrival of New Zealand, which could reduce prices.
Asia, meanwhile, will be dominated by New Zealand kiwifruit, according to SimFRUIT, meaning only fruit of excellent quality and condition will find its way onto the market.
With that in mind, the Chilean Kiwifruit Committee is expected to work to ensure that fruit reaches the minimum maturity level before being shipped to Asia.
Last season, Chile recorded an 18 per cent increase in total kiwifruit shipments to 183.526 tonnes, according to SimFRUIT.
Europe maintained its position as the leading export market, absorbing 64 per cent of the total, followed by Latin America and the US (with 13 per cent and 11 per cent respectively).
Asia, meanwhile, received 7 per cent of the crop, and the Middle East and Canada took just 3 per cent and 2 per cent respectively.
