Fresh fruit exports from Chile are projected to increase further during the 2010/11 season, according to the Chilean Fresh Fruit Exporters Association (Asoex).
“The Chilean fresh fruit industry should maintain a steady growth throughout coming seasons,” said Asoex president Ronald Bown.
Chilean blueberry exports have continued to pick up speed this season, with total exports surpassing initial estimates, eventually rising by 40 per cent against 2009/10.
Cherry sendings exploded this year, with volume up 71 per cent to more than 57,000 tonnes, compared with the previous season, according to Asoex.
Shipments of table grapes are expected to be five per cent higher than last year. The Crimson and Red Globe varieties, along with Autumn Royal, have shown the highest harvesting activity in late March, reports Fruitnet.com.
Nectarine and plum volume from Chile could increase by 10 per cent to 20 per cent this season, while peaches are set to grow by around five per cent.
According to SimFRUIT, exports of nectarines were already up by 17 per cent in February/March.
Production of peaches, plums, nectarines and apricots fell during the 2009/10 season because of weather-related issues.
Chile’s apple exports are expected to increase by two per cent in 2010/11 to approximately 858,000t predicted, according to SimFRUIT.
Red-skinned apple varieties like Royal Gala, Braeburn and Fuji are exported through October and the North American market tends to account for 14-16 per cent of total shipments.
Pears are powering up for a strong season in 2010/11, with exports expected to jump 4 per cent from last year to almost 119,000t, reports SimFRUIT.
This year, consumers can also expect to see new varieties like Forelle and Abate Fetel, in addition to the traditional favourites - Coscia, Summer Bartlett and Packham’s Triumph.
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