Record Chilean cherry exports may be even larger.
In its second estimate, the Cherry Committee of the Chilean Fresh Fruit Exporters Association (ASOEX) BB #:156234 projects greater growth compared to its first estimate (310,352 tons) on Nov. 9.
The committee indicates that the production and export of fresh cherries is now estimated at 316,184 tons, reflecting an increase of 38.3
percent when compared to 2019-2020.
This higher forecast marks a new record in exports of fresh Chilean cherries. It should be noted that the committed represents 77.4 percent of the exports of the Chilean cherry industry.
Ronald Bown, the President of ASOEX, said, “The cherry industry in Chile continues to grow, as well as the serious and responsible work of each producer and exporter, especially in the framework of the Covid-19 Pandemic. For continuing to comply with the safety and innocuous protocols determined by both the World Health Organization and the Ministries of Health and Agriculture of Chile.
“We have designed manuals, guides, check lists and videos on each of the measures that must be observed and complied with in order to ensure the health of workers, as well as the safety of processes and our fruits. Actions have also been planned to respond as quickly as required, in the event of an unforeseen event. Chile and its fruit have a long tradition as supplier of quality, taste and safety in the world, and that continues to be our commitment.”
He added, “Our sector, given its importance for the healthy diet of people, since the beginning of the pandemic, has committed to maintaining the continuity of operations, and we have done so until now, and we will continue to do so to ensure healthy food, full of nutrients and vitamins to Chilean consumers and consumers around the world.”
China continues to be the main destination for Chilean cherries, especially during the Chinese New Year period, which is celebrated on Feb. 12, 2021. This date gives more time than the 2020 celebration (Jan. 25) to carry out additional exports.
This season, there will be promotional campaigns in India, Vietnam and Thailand, which are added to last season’s markets of the U.S., South Korea, Brazil and China.
A few weeks ago, the first releases were carried out in Vietnam and Thailand, resulting in a very good reception from importers and distributors of fruits, as well as influencers and kitchen specialists, who were the main guests at the workshops held in these countries who were able to learn more about Chilean cherries.
In China, the slogan “Enjoy The Red Moment” will be maintained, but this season reinforcing it with the message “Caring for Every Healthy Moment”.
Ignacio Caballero, ASOEX’s marketing director, said, “Our objective will be focused on spreading the healthy and innocuousness of Chilean cherries, providing information about their contributions to health. A message that is valuable for consumers, because they will know that, in addition to consuming sweet and quality fruit, they will also they are contributing with it to better health, and for that reason, it is a fruit that can be consumed at any minute of the day or at any meeting or meal.”
