For Macfrut 2023 it was an honour to host during the WS cherry tree Prof. Marlene Ayala of the Catholic University of Chile, the person in charge of the main genetic improvement project on the cherry tree, started in 2010 and carried out in the largest cherry exporting country in the world, as well as the third largest cherry producer in the world and, so far at least, among the first importers of technological and varietal innovations.
Thanks to PMGC, the breeding programme supported by ASOEX - Consorcio Tecnologico de la Fruta and CORFO, a group of Chilean fruit producers and exporters, by 2030 Chile will be able to grow its own varieties and, probably, start exporting not only cherries but also new plant patents!
Below is the video of the report presented at Macfrut 2023.
Drosophila suzukii can be controlled either by chemical insecticides or by the use of entomopathogenic nematodes, which are easy to apply because they can be mixed in tanks together with other plant protection products, fertilisers and soil conditioners.
Chilean agronomist Sebastián Tapia will speak at the VI Huacho Symposium. His focus on cherries highlights water management, early pruning, and rootstock choice as essential tools to achieve premium fruit quality, even in regions facing shorter or milder winter conditions.
A FAO study in Uzbekistan analyzes the life cycle of apple, cherry and grape orchards, showing a negative carbon balance but critical issues in water use and eutrophication. Drip irrigation and solar energy improve sustainability, productivity and environmental impact.
Chile’s cherry industry has surged thanks to China, which absorbs 87% of exports. As the super cycle ends, the sector faces new challenges: tighter margins, rising competition and the urgent need to diversify markets to ensure long-term stability and growth.