As preparations continue for the upcoming Chilean cherry season Vanguard International has said barring any major weather issues, Chilean cherry exports are expected to rise again.
In a pre-season update, the company said there was anticipation for a strong 2021-2022 season despite global shipping disruptions.
“Last season, Chile exported 352,783 tonnes, which is 53 per cent more volume compared with the prior 2019-2020 season,” the company noted.
“Assuming no major weather issues are had before this year’s harvest, this season’s crop estimation is approximately 400,000 tonnes, a 12 per cent volume increase compared to last year.”
Although the first crop forecasts won’t be made until after September, early signs were good.
“Taking a look at the planted area in Chile, this year the industry has an increase of roughly 2,000ha for a total of 42,000ha,” the company said.
“To date, cold hours have been tracking within normal parameters, so the blossoms are looking strong and healthy.
“This cherry season looks to be seven days earlier compared with last year, which will assist us with reaching pre-sale deliveries and orders before Chinese New Year that falls on 1 February 2022.”
Vanguard International also noted challenges around weather, labour, water and shipping disruption, diversification being one of the main ways to respond to the latter.
“Last season we saw many delays in this market due to Covid-19-related issues, which have been well documented, so diversification is a must for the Chilean cherry industry,” said the company.
“Some markets we are focusing on to increase Chilean cherry sales include the US, Europe, Korea, Thailand, Indonesia, India, and Middle East.”
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