In spite of the important interest that Asia is causing amongst the large worldwide fruit exporter-producers, such as Chile, imports by the European markets have continued to grow in 2016-2017.
Although the Old Continent has lost economic strength compared to the new consumers with high spending power emerging in Asia, Europe continues to maintain its commercial appeal. Specifically, Chilean exports have grown by 8.7%, reaching almost 600,000 tonnes of produce, namely 596,891 tonnes.
All these volumes are framed within a positive tonic of increase in Chilean exports to the world. According to Asoex, Chilean exports grew by 4.3% in volume and reached 2,598 million tonnes, although these figures are still below the 2012-13 record, when they exported 2,645 million tonnes.
“In spite of the fact that we have more important volumes than in the previous season, we should still mention the adverse weather conditions, with episodes of heavy rainfall and frost with their subsequent negative impact,” explained Ronald Bown, chairman of Asoex.
In stark contrast to what has happened in Europe, exports of Chilean fruit to Asian and Latin American countries and the Middle East suffered a decline. In Asia, the drop was slight, with -0.6 %; in Latin America it reached -2.2%, and the countries in the Middle East were the ones who felt it most, with -8 %. The most significant case is that of the Arab Emirates with 14% less and Saudi Arabia with a 5% drop.
Regarding overall fruit exports from Chile, grapes continue to maintain their export leadership, with an increase in volume of 6.5%, reaching 732,498 tonnes. Apples held second place with 616,694 tonnes, followed by kiwis with 179,393 tonnes. However, the largest percentage increases occurred in avocados, 36.5%, pears with 17%, cherries with 14%, and blueberries with the same percentage.
Five countries absorb 60% of Chilean exports: the USA, which exceeds 850,000 tonnes, China and Hong Kong with 269,117, the Netherlands (186,704 tonnes), Colombia, which exceeds 100,000, and the United Kingdom with 108,000.
China continues to consolidate its situation as a purchasing country and has become a strategic point for Chilean exports.
