Cesena (11 March 2024) – Chile takes centre stage in the latest two Macfrut Academy video lessons, focusing on a globally successful case study in cherries. The first episode, dedicated to the field phase, will be aired on Thursday 14 March at 5 pm (Italian time), titled ‘Chilean cherry: a successful supply chain’.
The 30-minute video lesson provides a detailed look at how Chile has successfully overcome the challenges of a difficult market: the cherry market. The country now exports 90% of its production and has even conquered the Chinese market.
Hosted by Maicol Mercuriali, the episode begins with a general overview of the ‘Chilean model’ by Carlos Tapia, founder and technical director of Avium, a company specialising in research and development for cherry production.
The focus then moves on to the field, in particular varietal choices, agronomic techniques, selection and commercial strategies. Speakers include key players in the industry, such as Lorena Pinto, Manager of Cherry Ana Chile, Juan Pablo Zoffoli, lecturer at the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, and Andrea Ravaioli, Knowledge Transfer Office Manager at the University of Bologna: a shining example of synergy between academic research and the production industry.
Dr Stefano Lugli, representative of the Plant Nursery Area at Macfrut 2024, provided technical advice for the episode. The second episode, which will also be dedicated to the Chilean cherry supply chain, will focus on post-harvesting.
All of the available content can be accessed here free of charge after registration.
This video lesson on the Chilean cherry supply chain is the third episode of the Macfrut Academy, the innovative digital platform for professionals in the fruit and vegetable sector. This prestigious and scientific digital platform, designed in an agile format, offers an insight into key topics in the fruit and vegetable supply chain in order to keep professionals up to date with the latest industry news. All episodes are also available on demand after registering on the platform.
Info: academy@macfrut.com
24 May 2024
Although the season is a few days late, Washington, which is close to cherry production on the West Coast, is early. ‘There is a rush to get into the market before Washington starts producing, which usually reduces the value of the crop.’
04 Dec 2024
The president of the Protected Designation of Origin Cherry of Jerte, José Antonio Tierno, lamented the loss of 40% of the season for cherries, which are harvested earlier, and 70% of picota, which matures later. This translates into economic losses exceeding 15 million euros.
11 Jul 2025
Germany’s 2025 cherry harvest is projected at 49,900 tons, marking a 41% increase from 2024 and 10.4% above the 10-year average. Sweet cherries (Süßkirschen) show strong growth, while sour cherries (Sauerkirschen) also rebound. Favorable spring conditions boosted yields.
11 Jul 2025
Ganaspis kimorum, a parasitoid wasp, demonstrates strong overwintering ability in Michigan cherry and blueberry orchards. This finding supports its potential as a reliable biocontrol agent against Drosophila suzukii and for establishing stable populations across growing regions.
