News about Chile

Areko consolidates its commercial potential with excellent post-harvest results

Varieties

28 Jan 2026

Areko shines among Chilean cherries thanks to its excellent condition after 40 days of cold storage. Promoted by ANA Chile, this variety joins Sweet Saretta and Sweet Stephany, two promising UNIBO cherries with strong performance in size, firmness, and post-harvest durability.

Modern post-harvest management techniques propel Chilean cherries towards global excellence

Events

27 Jan 2026

The 3rd Cherry Postharvest Course, led by advisor Patricio Morales, gathered over 250 industry experts to enhance the postharvest quality of Chilean cherries. Focus on plant diseases, biological strategies, and goals for an increasingly competitive global export market.

Controlled atmosphere to extend “Regina” cherries shelf life: effects on internal browning and quality

Post-harvest​

23 Jan 2026

A study from Chile proves that controlled atmosphere with 10-15% CO2 and 10% O2 extends Regina cherries' shelf life up to 40 days while preserving quality and flavor—an effective solution to improve logistics for long-distance exports, especially to Asia.

Emerging postharvest technologies: ultrasound and nanobubbles

Post-harvest​

21 Jan 2026

A study in Chile tested ultrasound and nanobubble treatments on “Regina” sweet cherries to improve postharvest quality. The results reveal promising sustainable alternatives to fungicides, preserving freshness during long-distance shipping and storage.

Chilean Santina cherries officially low GI: new horizons for nutrition marketing

Health

20 Jan 2026

Chilean Santina cherries have officially been classified as a low glycemic index (GI=39) food. This result opens new doors for nutrition-focused marketing and reinforces cherries' status as a healthy, smart fruit choice for consumers aiming for a balanced and low-GI diet.

Chilean cherries boom in China: record exports and lower prices

Markets

20 Jan 2026

China now absorbs 93% of Chile’s cherry exports, making them the country’s second most exported product after copper. Thanks to direct sea routes, improved logistics, and lower prices, Chile is boosting its position as a global leader in agri-food trade with China.

Patagonian record: Frutos del Valle reaches the cherry export podium

Production

19 Jan 2026

With one million kilos of cherries exported, Frutos del Valle Patagónico becomes Patagonia’s second-largest cherry exporter. Through innovation, full traceability, and a reliable cold chain, the family-run business reaches Europe, Asia, and North America with top-quality fruit.

Chilean cherries face weather challenges but shine with smart strategies: cherry festival launches in China

Events

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.

New postharvest standard for cherries: anticipation and quality behind Chile’s leadership

Post-harvest​

09 Jan 2026

Rising volumes and logistical pressure make postharvest management the key driver of Chilean cherry profitability. Anticipation, DPV control, humidification, hydrocooling and contingency planning define a new operational standard to protect fruit quality, size and value.

The expert reports: modern post-harvest management of cherry orchards

Tech management

08 Jan 2026

Essential post-harvest practices to increase cherry orchard yield in Chile. Learn how irrigation, nutrition and pest control help optimize plant recovery, build reserves, and ensure a productive flowering and fruiting season under Chile’s changing climate conditions.