Argentina exported a record volume of cherries this season

According to estimates that were made before the end of this Cherry export season, Argentina exported more than 7,600 tons of cherries and set a new record. This season, despite the competition by Chilean cherries on the domestic market at its good prices in international and local markets.

According to Aníbal Caminiti, General Manager of the Argentine Chamber of Integrated Cherry Producers (Capci), “the season will generally end well.” Some regions took opportunities before the sea deliveries to China, achieved good prices and smooth marketing. However, Chubut was with weather challenges that affected production.

The increase in exports and market diversification are due to improvements in productivity and plantations. After harvesting technologies and improved cooling storage, the Argentine cherries made it possible to achieve distant destinations. Early production in certain areas also favored to enter the market when the supply was low and the demand was high and increases prices. In contrast, the oversupply of the Chilean cherries in China reduced demand and prices that also affect markets such as the United States, Europe and the Middle East.

Caminiti was concerned about Chilean competition next season. “If the weather is good next season, Chile will have a bigger export volume, which has an even greater impact on our markets.” This can affect prices and require new strategies.

Caminiti spoke about the internal challenges that the sector must master to face Chilean competition, such as: These increases reduce competitiveness compared to Chile, where production costs are lower. He also warned of the import of more than 1,000 tons of Chilean cherries that are 20% of the domestic market and could threaten the local manufacturers if the trend continues.

Source: bichosdecampo.com