Agronometrics Shorts: Chilean Cherry Exports to the US Market Witness a Decline

As the Chilean cherry season draws to a close, reports indicate that a total of 413,979 tonnes of cherries have been shipped worldwide, representing a marginal decrease of 0.3 percent compared to the previous year. While Asia experienced a 1.5 percent growth in cherry imports, shipments to other markets witnessed a decline. Particularly notable were decreases in exports to the US East and West Coasts, which were down by 14 percent and 52 percent respectively, totaling 13,977 tonnes. Latin America, Europe, Canada, and the Middle East also reported declines in cherry imports. In light of the limited supplies, prices in the US market were higher compared to the previous season. Executive Director of the Chilean cherry committee, Claudia Soler, expressed overall satisfaction with the season’s performance, citing positive reception from consumers. Despite initial concerns stemming from decreased export volumes due to spring rains, Soler highlighted that early-season fruit arrived in excellent condition and with superior quality, owing to prioritized air shipments. Fortunately, mid- to late-season exports remained unaffected by adverse weather conditions. A noteworthy trend observed this season was the increased reliance on airfreight shipments, especially to China, which received 15,000 tonnes of airflown Chilean cherries, representing a 4.4 percent increase from the previous season. Iván Marambio, president of Frutas de Chile, emphasized the resilience of the Chilean fruit industry, noting that despite challenges such as insufficient cold weather in winter and spring rains, exporters successfully delivered quality produce.

Source: USDA Market News via Agronometrics.

(Agronometrics users can view this chart with live updates here)

Source: USDA Market News via Agronometrics.

(Agronometrics users can view this chart with live updates here)

Written by Sarah Ilyas