The Chilean pear industry is set for a much more optimistic year volume-wise in 2015, with one market consultancy forecasting a 19% spike in shipments.

In a recent report, Decofrut highlighted the increased estimated volume to around 137,900MT was due to more benign spring conditions in 2014 compared to the frosts that damaged orchards in September, 2013.

As the leading cultivar, more than a third of exports are expected to be of the Packham's Triumph variety at 51,667MT, representing a 10% rise year-on-year.

Meanwhile, Abate Fetel pear exports are in for a 40% year-on-year rise, maintaining the upward trend seen back in 2013.

Decofrut highlighted the industry had witnessed a significant uptick in surface area dedicated to the Forelle variety, along with export volumes. The forecast for this cultivar in 2015 stands at a 9% year-on-year rise to 12,200MT.

The group said Coscia was one of the most affected varieties from the 2013 frost, but its volumes were on track to recovering this year with 9,780MT.

In contrast, a reduction in surface area means Beurre Bosc pear exports could decline by 7%.

"For the majority of the other varieties of pears grown in the country, it is estimated that shipment volumes will be very similar to the 2013 season," Decofrut said.

"The recovery in export volumes from Chile, adding to a favorable exchange rate between the peso and the dollar and the fact that pear inventory volumes in both Europe and the United States are lower than they were last year, allows [exporters] to be optimists for the Chilean pear season of 2015.

"The key will be, as always, in ensuring the shipment of quality and consistent product during the season."

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