What Should You Consider for Export?
The 2024-2025 Chilean cherry export season promises to be one of the largest to date. With a significant increase in production and high demand in key markets, it’s essential to consider various logistical, technical, and documentary aspects to ensure a successful export. Below, we provide a breakdown of the most relevant points to keep in mind.
Record Export of Chilean Cherry Projections
Key Destinations and Consumer Preferences
China remains the primary market for Chilean cherries, where the fruit is in high demand due to its symbolism of prosperity, especially during Chinese New Year. This cultural context drives consumption and the consistent growth of exports to the country. Additionally, Chile has invested more than $9 million in promotions to expand the reach of Chilean cherries into new international markets.
Transportation and Logistics
Most Exported Varieties
- Santina (47% of crops)
- Lapins
- Regina
Technical Considerations for Exporters of Chilean Cherry
To ensure a successful export, exporters must ensure that the cherries meet international phytosanitary requirements and that the transportation guarantees the fruit’s freshness. The main production regions are O’Higgins, Maule, and Ñuble, and proper logistical management from these areas to international markets is key to maintaining product quality.
Key Documentation for Chilean Cherry Exports
- Phytosanitary Certificate: Issued by SAG, this guarantees that the cherries meet the phytosanitary requirements of the destination country and are free of pests.
- Certificate of Origin: Certifies that the cherries are of Chilean origin and, in some cases, allows access to tariff benefits in markets with trade agreements with Chile.
- Commercial Invoice: Details the value, quantity, and characteristics of the exported cherries, a key document for customs.
- Packing List: Describes the distribution of products within containers, specifying dimensions, weight, and the number of boxes.
- Dispatch Guide: A transportation document that accompanies the cherries from the production site to the departure port or airport.
- Treatment Certificates: Document any special treatments the cherries have undergone, such as cooling to ensure they are pest-free.
- Customs Documentation: Forms that must be completed for both exit from Chile and entry into the destination country.
It is essential to verify the specific requirements of each destination country to avoid delays in the import process.
Production and Harvest
- Harvest Calendar: The main varieties, such as Lapins, Santina, and Regina, are harvested between December and late December, coinciding with high demand in China due to Chinese New Year. Some early varieties have already been exported in mid-October.
- Estimated Production: A single field can produce approximately 150,000 kilos of cherries per season, although this figure varies depending on climatic conditions.
Logistical Challenges
- Transport Conditions: Cherries are transported in refrigerated containers at temperatures between 0°C and 2°C with a humidity level of 90-95% to maintain their freshness until arrival.
- Logistical Collaboration: Coordination between shipping companies, land transporters, and packing facilities is essential to avoid delays and ensure that the fruit arrives in optimal condition.
Labor and Chilean Cherry Selection
- Labor Demand: Cherry harvesting requires a significant number of workers to select the larger fruits (28 mm or more), especially those destined for the Chinese market, which values larger cherries.
Promotion in China
For the 2024-2025 season, the cherry committee will invest $9 million in promotions in targeted markets such as China, the US, and South Korea. This will be carried out through media campaigns, train station ads, social media, influencer collaborations, and more.
