Chile’s Hass avocado industry is gearing up for a contraction in production this season, according to industry sources.
The South American nation appears to be set to produce less than 200,000 tonnes in 2012/13 as a result of drought conditions.
Global exports may total as little as 105,000 tonnes - a far cry from the 194,000 tonnes shipped just three years ago, local players told Americafruit.
Market-wise, Chile’s largest market - the US - is expected to receive its first volume several weeks later this year in comparison to the 2011/12 season.
The US market is currently awash in avocados and with the prospects of strong supplies well into the autumn (fall) months, speculation is that Chile will delay its initial appearance in North America.
The Chilean Avocado Importers Association (CAIA) told SIMfruit it expects the first arrivals to dock in the US in October, with fruit available until the end of March or early April.
Chile also exports a large volume of Hass avocados to Europe and is starting to grow its business in Asia.
