Exports of Chilean Hass avocados are expected to be lower than initial estimates during the 2008/09 season following widespread frost damage last season, which has impacted overall production.
The Chilean Hass avocado Association has revised its forecast, initially based on grove surveys from May 2008, down to 85,000 tonnes.
The group added that total exports to Europe are predicted to fall to around 16,000-17,000 tonnes, down considerably from the 28,000 tonnes shipped during 2007/08. Of that total, the UK is set to import between 4,500-5,000 tonnes.
'This season we have felt the effects of last year's unseasonable frost on production of Chilean Hass avocados, and the domestic market has also been particularly active,' said Adolfo Ochagavía, president of the Chilean Hass Avocado Association. 'However, as avocado groves recover and new tree plantings come on stream, we expect strong volumes in the 2009/10 season.
'Throughout, we are continuing to support the UK market with high quality shipments and our strong promotional campaign,' he added. 'There remains huge potential to grow this market further still in seasons to come.'
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