As it gathers for Kiwif Day 2026, the sector hears how it must capitalise on the post-pandemic consumption boom
Chile’s kiwifruit industry is experiencing an “exceptional moment”, with consumption at record levels consumers opting to prioritise health in the wake of the pandemic. This was the takeaway from Carlos Cruzat, head of the Chilean Kiwifruit Committee at the industry’s annual Kiwi Day gathering in Monticello last week.
The committee emphasised that this favourable scenario requires a long-term perspective, prioritising quality and consistency – factors that are decisive for ensuring the industry’s global competitiveness and sustainability.
The event heard how Chile’s kiwifruit output is expected to grow by 350,000 tonnes by 2035.
Opening the congress, Iván Marambio, president of Frutas de Chile, called on the industry to evolve toward an ‘Export Model 5.0’ to consolidate the fruit’s international competitiveness.
“The industry must work, prepare, and understand its challenges,” he said. “We have a tremendous opportunity to be competitive, and we need a product that meets our objectives.”
Cruzat said Kiwi Day had become a key platform for aligning the orchard perspective with market demands.
He noted that the domestic kiwifruit industry faces a huge opportunity which would require self-criticism and serious effort to identify challenges – both in the orchard and at a commercial level – to meet the needs of the end consumer.
“Regardless of the type of consumer, if they receive delicious, reliable fruit that maximises their experience, they will want to buy it again, and that is what we must achieve with our kiwifruit,” he said.
Cruzat added that “the message for the sector is clear and compelling. We have a spectacular opportunity. We must focus and work toward a shared goal, channelling our current success into long-term initiatives so that, in ten years’ time, we will have fully capitalised on the opportunity before us”.
Cruzat highlighted the Kiwifruit Committee’s role in providing strategic tools and unifying technical knowledge. “Beyond the day-to-day operations of individual farms, the committee works to transfer key information from leading producers to those with less access to consulting services or those located in remote areas,” he explained.
“The goal is to raise standards across the board and build a solid foundation so the entire industry can make the most of this historic moment – and Kiwi Day is part of that effort.”
