The Federation of Fruit Producers of Chile (Fedefruta) has raised an alert about a possible reduction in cherry export projections due to the drop in fruit. “The projections made so far may need to be reduced,” stated the association in its report.
The alert is based on a survey conducted among cherry growers in different regions of the country. All have observed a notable fruit drop. In this regard, Fedefruta emphasized that this situation is a recurring issue reported by the consulted producers.
"We decided to raise this alert due to concerns about export management and the expected volumes, which may now be compromised,” explained Fedefruta.
The experts from the federation specified that despite favorable flowering, pollination, and climate, a fruit drop is being observed, especially in the Regina variety. “Even the Santina variety, although it is earlier, continues to fall,” they said. Other affected varieties include Royal Dawn and Lapins.
Although the specific cause is not yet known, Fedefruta points to several possible factors. “It could be due to a pattern, the area, the microclimate, or related to a varietal issue and agronomic management,” the experts commented. According to them, the fruit drop could be part of a natural load adjustment.
One of the producers consulted revealed an initial forecast of 8 million kilos of cherries in one of the early varieties but warned that the final harvest will be much lower. Fedefruta highlighted that this cherry phenomenon is putting export plans for this season to the test and stated that they will continue to monitor the situation.
Source: BioBioChile
Image: Mundoagro
26 May 2025
Cytospora sorbicola and Calosphaeria pulchella threaten sweet cherry in Chile. A study reveals different resistance levels among cultivars like Lapins and Regina, and promotes PCR-HRM as a fast, effective tool for early and accurate fungal pathogen detection.
21 Jun 2024
The company uses a range of electrical equipment, including anti-freeze fans, irrigation pumps and vehicles, all powered by a 23 kW solar system and a 105 kWh battery, as well as by New Zealand's high-intensity renewable electricity grid.
16 Jan 2026
B.J. Thurlby, who passed away at age 60, led the Washington State Fruit Commission for over 25 years. As a true ambassador for Northwest cherries, he championed research, exports and grower education, leaving a deep mark on the U.S. and international fruit industry.
16 Jan 2026
Frutas de Chile has revised its 2025/26 cherry export forecast down by 15% due to adverse weather, with shipments expected to reach 110 million boxes. To support sales, the Cherry Ice and Snow Festival launches in China, blending cherries, lifestyle and Lunar New Year culture.
