Export Success
Chile currently exports to more than 70 countries worldwide and is among the world?s leading exporters of table grapes, blueberries, plums and avocados. The signing of FTA?S and double taxation agreements, together with the regulation of production processes, has seen fruit exports double over the past eight years. Chilean fruit exports reached US $2,665 million in 2007, and as the global demand for healthy, organic food products increases, the sector?s exports are estimated to rise to US$ 12.5 billion by 2012.
Natural advantages 
Chile is one of the few countries in the southern hemisphere to have a Mediterranean climate. It has a unique night-day thermal range which promotes the accumulation of sugars in fruits, creating their distinct flavours, colours and aromas. The country?s north-south distribution allows for staggered harvests, so a wide period of production and exportation is sustained. Fruit production takes place in seasonal opposition to the main areas of consumption in the northern hemisphere, generating significant business opportunities.
Internationally recognised phytosanitary standards With the Andes to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west, Chile is naturally protected from the pests which plague agriculture in many other countries. As a result, the spraying of agricultural pesticides in Chile is rare. In addition to Chile?s natural defences, the Ministry of Agriculture?s policies have helped to eradicate the Mediterranean fruit fly from the country, and Chile remains the only country which is Phyloxera free.