Chilean citrus production forecast out, exports to declineFor more information on export to China, please call SINOLOBEN, service Email: sinoloben@sloben.com
Recently, Juan Enrique Ortúzar, president of the Chilean Citrus Committee of the Chilean Fruit Exporters Association (ASOEX), said that Chilean citrus exports are facing huge challenges this season due to logistics, drought and epidemics.
Ortúzar said, "It has been a challenging season, with logistics costs almost doubling. The Chinese market still has many restrictions in the context of the epidemic. Although other countries have relaxed their requirements, we are still facing the consequences of the epidemic. At the same time, Chile is facing a drought that has lasted for more than 10 years."
Chilean Clemente oranges are available from May-August each year, and tangerines from August-November. According to the report, the worst affected by the drought are the Clementine oranges, with an estimated export volume of 45,000 tons, 35% less than in 2021. Clemente's oranges are mainly grown in the Coquimbo region, which is one of the areas most affected by the drought. Orange production will reach 120,000 tons, 5% less than the previous season.
Chilean lemon availability can last from May until November. Exact production estimates are not yet available, with total production expected to be around 90,000 tons, down 11% from the previous season. Although lemon growing areas have not received the effects of drought, exports will be reduced due to cost and logistical effects. Exports of navel oranges are expected to be 90,000 tons, down 13% from the previous season.
In 2020, Chile exported a total of 366,378 tons of all types of citrus, of which 50% were Clementines and oranges, 26% were lemons and 24% were navel oranges.
