Chilean Prune Exports Rose 38.2% in H1-23 on Strong Chinese Imports

Chilean prune exports have witnessed a substantial surge, with the driving force being robust imports from the Chinese market. The first half of 2023 has seen a remarkable increase in shipments to China, propelling the total Chilean dried plum exports to unprecedented heights. The Chilean Ministry of Agriculture's Agrarian Studies and Policies (Odepa) reported that during this period, Chilean dried plum exports reached an impressive 25.62 thousand metric tons (mt), valued at USD 104.4 million. This remarkable achievement represents a staggering 38.2% increase in volume and a notable 40.8% rise in value compared to the cumulative figures achieved throughout 2022.

The principal destinations for Chilean dried plum shipments during this period were predominantly China, receiving 5.82 thousand mt (USD 19 million), followed by Germany with 3.46 thousand mt (USD 15.9 million), and Mexico with 2.36 thousand mt (USD 8.7 million). Notably, shipments to China experienced a remarkable surge, with volumes reaching 5.8 thousand mt and values at USD 19 million for the first half of 2023. These figures mark a substantial increase of 278% in volume and an impressive 270% in value when contrasted with the corresponding period of the preceding year. This substantial growth catapulted China to become the primary overseas market for Chilean prunes in H1-23.

Source: ITC

The global ranking further solidifies China's prominence as the leading importer, with Germany and Mexico securing second and third positions. Both countries also witnessed commendable upticks in import volumes and values during the initial half of this year. In contrast, the United States, which held the top position in H1-22, relinquished its spot, slipping to the eighth position in H1-23.

This remarkable surge in Chilean prune exports can be attributed to a series of favorable factors. The industry's 2022 season commenced with a supply shortage due to the previous year's summer rains. However, the ample 2022 harvest resulted in a substantial stockpile that paved the way for impressive export numbers in 2023. A bumper harvest in 2023 further contributed to this year's exceptional export figures. Notably, the size of the fruit harvested in 2023 is larger compared to the preceding year, further enhancing the appeal of Chilean prunes in international markets.

Chile boasts an expansive plum tree plantation spanning 12.55 thousand hectares (ha) and a yearly production capacity of around 100 thousand mt. Approximately two-thirds of this production is processed into prunes. Chileprunes, the industry association, highlights the meticulous drying and natural tenderization process that precedes packing in accordance with specific customer requirements for future sales.

Chile's unique climate variations have been a boon for stone fruit production, especially nectarines, plums, and sugar plums. These fruits have captured a significant market share in China due to their impeccable quality. Nectarine exports span from December to March, while Chilean plums, distinguished by their juicy flesh and small kernels, begin exports from mid-November and continue through April.

One particular gem in Chile's fruit offering is sugar plums, a favorite among Chinese consumers. These plums have been cultivated in Chile for over seven decades, solidifying the country's position as the world's largest supplier of this delectable fruit. The vast planting area, exceeding 15 thousand ha, underscores Chile's commitment to meeting global demand.

Interestingly, Chileprunes is actively engaged in the development of a sustainability standard for the Chilean prune industry. This comprehensive project spans four phases, including standard definition, audits, training, and certification issuance. The standard review phase was completed in July, with the pilot version of the standard set for the next phase. Launched in January, this project is expected to span 28 months, heralding a promising era of sustainable growth for the Chilean prune sector.