The first ever chartered vessel loaded exclusively with Chilean fruit arrived at the port of Shanghai on Friday.
The vessel was chartered by leading Chinese importer Dalian Yidu Group, which also pioneered the use of charter flights for Chilean fruit exports in 2012.
The 4,000-tonne shipment of blueberries, cherries, nectarines, grapes and plums from 30 Chilean exporters was welcomed at a special ceremony attended by dignitaries and industry figures including port operators, agents and importers.
“In 2017, Chile became the biggest exporter, in value, of fresh fruit to the Chinese market – a significant logistical achievement given the distance that separates the two countries,” said Cesar Suárez, Chile’s commercial attaché in Shanghai.
“In addition to the very successful air charter service, the new maritime charter means Chilean fruit will be able to reach Chinese consumers in the condition, times and quantities that the market is increasingly demanding.”
