Chilean exporters association pays tribute to former president, who helped steer meteoric growth of the industry over his three decades at the helm
Frutas de Chile is mourning the death of Ronald Bown Fernández, the historic president of the association, who led the organisation for more than three decades from 1986 to 2022.
“Ronald led with vision, generosity and an unwavering commitment to the sector,” said Iván Marambio, president of Frutas de Chile, in a statement.
“Through his leadership, Chile became one of the world’s leading exporters of fresh fruit, internationally recognised for its quality, reliability and excellence. He was a tireless advocate for producers and exporters, and at the same time, a deeply respected person who was approachable, principled, and deeply committed to the common good.”
Bown played a pivotal role in fostering dialogue and building consensus between the public and private sectors, helping to strengthen a shared vision for Chile’s development, Marambio noted.
“His ability to bring people together and his constant willingness to build consensus made it possible to advance policies, regulations, and strategies that consolidated fruit growing as one of the most important sectors of the Chilean economy,” he said.
Convinced sustainable growth was only possible through collaboration, Bown championed an institutional relationship based on trust, cooperation and a collective effort among authorities, producers, exporters, and communities, Marambio added.
“His leadership transcended the fruit sector, becoming a reference point for how public-private dialogue and coordination can contribute to Chile’s national development and boost its standing on the global stage.”
Marambio said the Chilean fruit export industry today reflects Bown’s legacy. “It’s an example of commitment, vision, and leadership that inspired and continues to guide our daily work in the fruit industry.”
Frutas de Chile extended is deepest sympathies to Bown’s family, friends, colleagues and the entire fruit community.
Likewise, Fruitnet wishes to offer its sincere condolences to those affected and those who knew him.
