Chilean fruit industry faces systemic challenges despite record exports

Chile's fruit industry, which generates approximately US$ 5,000 million annually, is facing significant systemic crises despite reaching record export figures exceeding US$ 8,198 million during the 2025-2026 season. While the sector has diversified into 75 species, five main products—cherries, table grapes, blueberries, avocados, and apples—account for 83% of export value.

Key challenges include a phytosanitary alert involving 66 fruit fly outbreaks, which required US$ 33 billion in quarantine regulations to protect international markets. The industry also faces logistical bottlenecks, including a shortage of refrigeration technicians and cold chain saturation. Additionally, the overproduction of small-caliber cherries has impacted profitability.

Experts warn that structural water scarcity remains the most critical threat. Industry groups suggest that without an annual investment of US$ 500 million in reservoirs, Chile risks losing its commercial position to Peru by 2028.