Chilean kiwifruit exports jump 16 percent as industry doubles down on quality
Writing and reporting by Macarena Bravo | Lee esta noticia en Español
The Chilean kiwifruit sector is enjoying yet another excellent season, in what the industry describes as a “second life” following deep disease impacts in 2012. Producers reported a healthy crop for the 2026 season, while exports have risen 16 percent year-on-year as demand strengthens in major markets, including the United States.
Chilean Kiwifruit Committee President Carlos Cruzat told FreshFruitPortal.com that favorable growing and harvest conditions helped the industry achieve one of its key objectives: securing maturity across producing regions.
“The fruit had good levels of dry matter and soluble solids, which allows for better physiological ripeness and more predictable behavior during storage,” Cruzat explained.
According to the executive, growers delayed harvests slightly to maximize yields and improve maturity. Favorable fall weather, including the absence of significant frosts and limited rainfall disruption, supported harvest operations.
Despite high quality across production areas, some growers reported a higher share of smaller fruit. Cruzat attributed the difference to a longer flowering period, which often leads to uneven fruit development.
The committee said increased production reflects both the maturation of younger orchards and grower investment in fertilization, orchard management, and productivity improvements.
“The strong economic performance of kiwifruit in recent years has encouraged producers to invest in their orchards. This has enabled orchards that previously produced 14.3 tons per acre to now reach 16.5 tons, and others that produced 16.5 tons to reach 18.7 tons,” he said.
Chilean kiwifruit momentum builds
Cruzat said US demand has returned to historical levels after buyers adopted a more cautious approach in 2025 amid tariff uncertainty. European imports of Chilean kiwis have also increased, supported by lower availability of Greek fruit and quality challenges reported in that market.
Demand remains steady across Latin America, particularly in Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, and Argentina. Meanwhile, India continues to emerge as one of the most important growth markets for Chilean kiwifruit exports.
"India is a market with enormous potential. Ten years ago, we were shipping around 800 tons; today, we’re at around 18,000 tons. We believe it will continue to grow as awareness of the product increases and distribution strengthens," Cruzat stated.
Quality: The key to future growth
The Chilean Kiwifruit Committee said global market conditions remain favorable for kiwifruit consumption, supported by healthy eating trends and growing consumer awareness of the fruit’s nutritional attributes.
Cruzat said maintaining quality standards throughout the supply chain will be critical if the industry hopes to sustain demand growth in international markets.
“Chile’s opportunity lies in delivering an attractive, healthy fruit that offers an excellent consumer experience. Only then can we capitalize on the growth the global kiwifruit market is showing,” he concluded.
*All images are referential.
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Chilean kiwifruit industry to delay harvest, prioritize quality
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