According to a new estimate from the Asoex Cherries Committee, the country's fresh cherry exports would reach 80 million boxes, amounting to around 400 thousand tons. A figure that, although it is less than the 89 million boxes estimated last October, will set a new record for shipments of these fruits worldwide.

«The cherry has become the main fruit exported by Chile, there is no doubt about it, especially due to the importance that this industry has for the country's economy, the generation of jobs and the positive country image generated around it. So far, we are very optimistic with the development of the cherry season, since it has been a much better year than the past, especially in logistical terms, which has allowed us to unblock knots and arrive with the fruit in the condition, quality and time that the markets expect," commented Iván Marambio, president of ASOEX.

Marambio highlighted that almost all the fruit has already been sent to the destination markets, and that, as regards the Chinese market, ¨15% of the volume would arrive during or after the Chinese New Year¨.

At week 52, Chile has exported 372.169 tons of cherries. Of these, 331.149 tons have been destined for China, being the main destination, followed by the United States with 13.914 tons and Taiwan with 5.600 tons.

For her part, Claudia Soler, Manager of the Cherries Committee, highlighted that, in addition to optimizing the production and logistics chain, good production conditions this season have been vital, which has allowed us to have quality fruit. Likewise, she observed that, in order to promote the consumption of these larger volumes, various promotional actions are being carried out in China, the United States, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam and India. All this, within the framework of a campaign of around USD$6 million.

«The campaign in China seeks to accompany the increase in shipments and encourage greater consumption of cherries in the market and strengthen the recognition of Chile as a quality cherry producer. "We seek to stimulate new consumption occasions, generate confidence among consumers regarding the quality and safety of Chilean cherries and inspire an emotional connection to the product."

He added: "As a Committee there is an effort to diversify our destination markets and we are seeing that today with significant growth in the United States as well as in other Latin American and Asian markets."

Finally, Claudia Soler highlighted the growth of the Chilean cherry production and export industry in the last 10 years. «In the 2013-2014 season, we exported 68.544 tons. "In the 2021-2022 season, we reached 373.669 tons, and in this season we estimate that we will reach around 400 thousand."