First Chilean apple forecast of the season: Exports will see slight increase in 2026
The Chilean apple sector projects a 2026 marked by a slight recovery in volume, better quality, and progress in variety replacement, according to the industry’s first seasonal forecast, presented by the Pink Lady Committee at industry body Frutas de Chile.
Ignacio Caballero, Committee Coordinator, reported that the Chilean apple season's volume is currently estimated at 580,867 tons, a two percent increase compared to the previous season.
Chilean apple exports: A breakdown
The Pink Lady family is expected to record a six percent drop in shipments, with a projected total of 116,260 tons. Within this group, Pink Lady is projected to reach 89,011 tons, while Cripps Pink would total 27,249 tons.
Gala exports are forecast to rise by five percent, leading shipments with 246,510 tons. In contrast, Fuji’s export volume is expected to drop by four percent, to 123,324 tons.
The green apples (non-club) are estimated to reach 77,209 tons, a three percent drop compared to the previous season, while red club varieties are expected to experience a sharper fall of 17 percent, reaching 49,384 tons.
Estimates for other red varieties increased notably by 34 percent, sitting at 41,954 tons, and green club varieties are expected to follow suit with an extra 574 tons, representing a 16 percent rise.
Caballero announced that the process will continue with a second Chilean apple estimate scheduled for June 5, at which time the figures will be adjusted ahead of the close of the export season.
The report was prepared by the committee with the participation of 31 companies, reaching 78 percent of the total exported in 2025.
The data collection was carried out between April 10 and 29, and marks the beginning of the Chilean apple monitoring season.
*All images are referential.
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