Chile’s apple sector is heading into the 2026 season with a positive outlook, as export volumes are expected to grow moderately. According to the First Apple Estimate released by the Pink Lady Committee of Fruits of Chile, total production is projected at 580,867 tonnes, representing a 2% increase compared to 2025.
The estimate, compiled with input from 31 companies, covers around 78% of the total apple exports recorded last year, making it a representative snapshot of the national production landscape.
“This first estimate reflects the reality of the sector and marks the starting point for monitoring the harvest, with the aim of strengthening Chile’s competitiveness in international markets,” said Ignacio Caballero, coordinator of the Pink Lady Committee.
Mixed performance across varieties
While overall volumes are expected to grow, performance varies by variety. The Pink Lady apple family is forecast to reach 116,260 tonnes, a 6% decrease compared to the previous season.
Within this segment, premium Pink Lady-quality fruit is expected to total 89,011 tonnes, down 3% year-on-year, while Cripps Pink volumes are projected at 27,249 tonnes, marking a sharper decline of 14%. This shift suggests a higher proportion of top-quality fruit within the category.
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Among the main commercial varieties, Gala exports are expected to rise by 5% to 246,510 tonnes, maintaining their position as the leading variety. Fuji, on the other hand, is forecast to decline slightly by 4%, reaching 123,324 tonnes.
Green apples (non-club varieties) are projected at 77,209 tonnes, down 3%, while red club varieties are expected to fall by 17% to 49,384 tonnes. In contrast, other red varieties are set to grow significantly, increasing by 34% to 41,954 tonnes. Green club varieties, although still marginal, are expected to rise by 16% to 574 tonnes.
Stronger industry participation
The report also highlights increasing participation among exporters in providing data, reflecting greater transparency within the sector. Coverage reaches 92% in the Pink Lady category, 77% for Gala and 83% for Fuji, indicating a growing commitment to accurate market information.
Next update in June
The monitoring process will continue with a second estimate scheduled for 5 June, which will allow for adjustments to the figures as the season progresses and provide a clearer outlook ahead of the final export results.
Overall, Chile’s apple industry is entering the 2026 campaign with stable growth expectations, supported by solid export performance and improved data visibility across key varieties.
