News about Chile

Controlled atmosphere extends shelf life of sweet cherries: study from Chilean university

Post-harvest​

05 Feb 2026

A research study from the University of Chile investigates how controlled atmosphere storage improves the shelf life of ‘Bing’ and ‘Lapins’ sweet cherries. Results show significant postharvest quality improvements under cold storage and market simulation conditions.

Biological support in cherry orchards is essential in the post-harvest phase

Tech management

03 Feb 2026

Post-harvest cherry management in Chile is key to next season’s fruit quality. Irrigation, organic nutrition, soil microbes and integrated systems are transforming orchards with regenerative agriculture to ensure productivity and sustainability.

Cherry rootstocks: final phase of genetic project concluded in southern Chile

Rootstocks

02 Feb 2026

Chile’s cherry rootstock genetic program ends its final stage with field trials of ten clonal selections, tested against climate and pathogen stress. The project aims to improve productivity and sustainability in the central-southern region of the country.

Crisis and opportunity for Chilean cherries: impact of Lunar New Year 2026

Markets

30 Jan 2026

Chilean cherries face a tough 2026 season in China: early varieties, quality issues, and a late Lunar New Year impact demand and prices. Insights from Joy Wing Mau Group and outlook for alternative Asian markets like Vietnam, Taiwan, South Korea and Singapore.

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.