17% increase exports of new and better varieties of Chilean blueberries this season
According to the Crop Report corresponding to week 1-2020, published by the Asoex Blueberry Committee, and prepared by IQosulting, the harvests are still concentrated in the south central zone, where volumes remain at the peak although the focus has transferred to the mid-season varieties, dominating Legancy and Brigitta, while the earliest ones are already with decreasing volumes. The southern zone is increasing its participation, mainly the Araucanía region and although it has not yet entered the peak of volumes, these show an increase compared to last season.
The report highlights that during week 52 - which was interrupted by the Christmas celebrations and low intensity rains that affected some collecting areas - 8.620 tons were exported, accumulating a total of 47.821 tons to date (1% more than the season past the same week).
Although the total volumes exported are similar to the previous year, there is a change in the configuration of varieties so far this season. Thus, at week 52 and with a 42% advance of the season, the varieties that have been recommended not to export have decreased by 53% compared to the previous season and represent only 1% of the total exported. On the other hand, varieties where restrictions on handling and harvest periods have been reduced by 15%, reaching 29% of the total exported.
Finally, the group of new varieties or those that have demonstrated a good behavior in post harvest have increased by 17% and represent 70% of the total. This is in line with the recommendations delivered by the Blueberry Committee, to ensure quality in the destination markets.
Shipments of organic blueberries continue to increase and until week 52 reached 5.206 tons, 11% of the total exported to date and 45% more than the previous year.
North Zone:The season is over, leaving only some limited harvest volumes in the Valparaíso region.
Downtown area:Decreasing volumes in OHiggins. The crops are in their final stage, with the latest Emerald and Legacy collections.
Central-South Zone:The crops are still at the peak of volumes, although more focused on mid-season varieties such as Legacy and Brigitta that is increasing.
South Zone:The harvest is focused on La Araucanía, mainly with Duke, a variety that shows an advance in its harvest and an increase in its shipments. Others are starting, like Legacy. The Los Ríos Region is just starting with the Duke harvest.
Previous article
Berries and grapes will boost the agricultural sector in 2020next article
The red fruits of Morocco to conquer foreign marketsARTÍCULOS RELACIONADOS
