Shipments up by more than 40 per cent in the 2023/24 campaign

Cherry exports from Argentina’s Rio Negro grew 43 per cent in 2023, reaching 1,846 tonnes, according to data from the Argentine Chamber of Integrated Cherry Producers (CAPCI). The figures reflect an increase of around 11 per cent on the average for the past five years, but are short of the record 2,365 tonnes shipped in the 2020/21 campaign.

Argentine cherries

The region’s production is mainly concentrated in the Valle Medio, which accounts for 95 per cent of the export total.

“This season production was affected by the hailstorms and rains that occurred in December. This resulted in much of the fruit that was originally destined for export being diverted to the domestic market,” a local source said.

Around 25 per cent of the crop was exported this season, compared with 39 per cent in 2020/21. However, this was partially offset by an increase in exports from Neuquén and Chubut.

According to the latest data provided by CAPCI, total Argentine cherry exports during the current season reached a record 7,178 tonnes, reflecting a growth of 51 per cent in relation to the previous season.