A landmark event for the cherry industry: international experts, innovation, market analysis, and climate challenges are at the heart of the Redagrícola Cherry Conference agenda.
Chile is preparing to host an unprecedented technical event for the cherry sector. The first edition of the Redagrícola Cherry Conference will take place on May 28 and 29, 2025, at the Monticello Events Center in Mostazal, O’Higgins Region.
This two-day event dedicated entirely to cherry cultivation is designed for farmers, technicians, researchers, and business operators interested in exploring the latest sector developments.
With a technical-specialist format, true to Redagrícola's style, the conference will bring together key figures from the international and Chilean cherry-growing scene, offering opportunities for dialogue, discussion, and updates on research, technological innovation, and market perspectives.
The event will be organized across two conference halls, featuring a rich program of presentations and round tables. Alongside technical-scientific presentations, startups, research centers, and universities will showcase the latest developments in genetics, physiology, post-harvest technologies, and sustainability.
One of the most anticipated presentations will be from Ricky Chong, commercial director of Global Fresh, a company with cherry orchards in Chile, China, and Tasmania. Chong will provide an analysis of the Chinese market—the main outlet for around 90% of Chilean exports—and reflect on the need to diversify trade destinations in response to new consumer behaviors in Asia.
The conference will also tackle the implications of climate change on cherry cultivation. Dr. Javier Rodrigo (CITA, Spain) will share his experience on standardizing agronomic criteria for different varieties in an increasingly unpredictable climate context.
His focus will be on biological markers to identify fruit ripening stages.
From the Chilean side, Dr. Karen Sagredo (Universidad de Chile) will speak about the physiology of cherry trees related to the demand for larger fruits, analyzing varieties currently cultivated in the country.
She is also actively involved in validating products for sustainable orchard management.
Another key topic will be post-harvest management. Jessica Rodríguez, an expert with over 20 years of industry experience, will analyze the crucial processes for preserving cherry quality up to the final destination, drawing on her consultancy work with Trío Kimún.
Significant attention will be given to real agronomic challenges. Luis Valenzuela, former R&D director at Copefrut, will address disorders related to climate and pollination, while Jordi Casas, former technical director at Frusan, will discuss critical issues and opportunities linked to new varieties on the market.
On nutrition, Dr. Marlene Ayala (PUC Chile) will present her studies on the importance of foliar calcium and productive physiology of cherry trees, oriented toward genetic improvement.
Closing the expert presentations will be Walter Masman, a consultant active between the Coquimbo and Los Lagos regions, who will lead a technical debate on critical issues from the 2024/25 season, characterized by record export volumes.
Finally, Dr. Andrés France (formerly INIA) will highlight emerging pathogens linked to the expansion of cultivation areas and introduction of new varieties in previously uncultivated regions.
In a complex year for the industry, the Cherry Conference aims to be a turning point for professionals in Chilean cherry growing who are eyeing international markets with interest.
A unique opportunity to stay updated, exchange insights, and tackle future challenges with greater awareness, keeping an eye also on the European and Italian contexts, increasingly focused on product quality and sustainability.
📌 More information and the full program are available on the official Redagrícola website.
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Chile's 2025/26 cherry season begins amid major challenges: oversupply, logistics breakdowns, and price drops. The industry now focuses on quality, sustainability, alternative markets, and stronger coordination to reduce risks and sustain global leadership.
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A Romanian study analyzes the correlation between fruit quality and cracking in three sweet cherry cultivars: Special, Tentant, and Severin. The results highlight significant differences in weight, pH, color, °Brix, and cracking index, with implications for varietal selection.
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A study in France explores the effects of ornamental winter fruits on Drosophila suzukii, an invasive pest damaging soft fruit crops. Researchers tested thermal regimes to evaluate survival, reproduction, and potential strategies for biological control and prevention.
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Frosts as low as -9°C did not affect cherry production in Patagonia thanks to sprinkler irrigation systems that protect flowers and buds. The Cherry Growers’ Chamber reassures: no damage to crops, but targeted investments are needed to face extreme weather events.
