PMGC the new Chilean cherry breeding project

19 May 2023
2413

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.


Cherry Times - All rights reserved

What to read next

EU cherry consumption on the rise: 2024 set to be a record year for the last decade

Consumption

26 Dec 2025

In 2024, cherry consumption in the European Union reached 629,000 tonnes, marking a +4.5% increase on an annual basis and reaching its highest level in ten years. Production, imports and exports are also growing, with Italy and Spain among the leading countries.

Stemilt signs an agreement to grow the extra-late KIR varieties

Varieties

21 Apr 2026

Stemilt has signed an agreement with Brandt’s Fruit Trees and LFP to grow KIR cherries, late and ultra-late varieties bred in Germany, aiming to extend the commercial season through September and enhance the quality of premium cherry supply in the United States market.

In evidenza

Bumblebees could help combat bacterial diseases in cherry trees

Crop protection

05 Oct 2026

Bumblebees can carry bacteriophages directly to cherry blossoms, helping reduce Pseudomonas syringae populations. A University of Warwick study highlights a targeted biological approach that could support cherry grower while reducing reliance on conventional pesticides.

Expansion, varietal renewal and technological progress are reshaping the landscape of the Chilean cherry sector

Production

05 Oct 2026

Chile’s cherry industry is entering a new phase: 77,766 hectares, young orchards and major varietal renewal. An ODEPA study shows how Santina, Lapins and Regina, together with drip irrigation, could support a further increase in future cherry production across Chile.

Tag Popolari