Trade agreements and market diversification play a crucial role in the fruit industry. The adage “It is better to put your eggs in different baskets” emphasizes the importance of securing shipments and having the flexibility to redirect exports to alternative destinations in case of complications.
In 2024, a significant milestone was the implementation of the Systems Approach for Chilean table grapes, a protocol that benefits fruit produced in the regions of Atacama, Coquimbo, and part of the Valparaíso region. This protocol replaces methyl bromide fumigation with mitigation measures at the source, enhancing the quality and condition of the fruit and strengthening competitiveness against other southern hemisphere suppliers in the U.S. market. Chile’s Minister of Agriculture highlighted the importance of this protocol, especially considering that table grapes are one of the country’s main fruit exports, generating over one billion dollars annually, with a significant portion going to the United States.
Furthermore, Chile and Brazil signed trade agreements that led to a 42% increase in fruit exports to the Brazilian market. Peru also implemented strategies to boost exports, allowing for increased citrus exports to Brazil and the reactivation of table grape shipments to Ecuador after a decade-long suspension. Other countries like Ecuador and Brazil benefited from trade agreements, with Ecuador exporting pineapples to Peru and Brazil exporting apples to Peru. Colombia also successfully exported avocados to the Chilean market and gained access to Ecuador for lemons and sweet citrus from Argentina.
New market accesses in South America included exports of various fruits and flowers to countries like Ecuador, Brazil, Colombia, and Chile. In the Asian market, Peruvian products such as grapes, pecans, nuts, and frozen fruits gained access to China, Malaysia, and Vietnam.
In the United States market, efforts were made to strengthen the image and positioning of Chilean fruits, with initiatives like launching a unified brand by Frutas de Chile. Additionally, the U.S. market saw the introduction of Guatemalan avocados and Colombian passion fruits, expanding the variety of fruits available to consumers. Argentina successfully exported blueberries to the U.S., marking a significant achievement for the industry.
In Asia, several countries sought to expand their agro-export basket to reach more consumers. Brazil secured agreements to export table grapes and avocados to China and Japan, respectively. Chile made strides in exporting plums directly to Chinese supermarkets and collaborated with Chinese companies to explore business opportunities. Peru and Ecuador also made efforts to gain access to new markets in Japan and the Middle East, showcasing the industry’s commitment to expanding its reach.
Looking ahead to 2025, the fruit-producing countries are expected to face new challenges, including conquering new markets, improving phytosanitary conditions, and solidifying consumer preference worldwide. Ecuador’s soursop industry aims to gain access to the U.S. market, while also eyeing opportunities in China for avocados, mangoes, and frozen blueberries from Peru.
In conclusion, trade agreements and market diversification are essential for the fruit industry’s growth and sustainability. By expanding into new markets and enhancing product quality, fruit-producing countries can strengthen their competitive position and meet the evolving demands of consumers worldwide.