Chilean inspection station sets record with 14.4M boxes of US-bound fresh produce

The Chilean fruit export season just set a new high at the USDA-SAG Teno inspection site, located in the Andean country’s central region. More than 14.4 million boxes of fresh produce underwent phytosanitary inspection during the 2025/26 season, with most shipments destined for the United States.

The volume surpassed the 12 million boxes inspected during the previous cycle, according to Chile’s Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG). The station processed more than 11,000 lots, reinforcing its role in the phytosanitary certification of Chilean fruit bound for the US market.

Chilean citrus, apples, and cherries lead the way

Oranges accounted for the largest share of inspected produce, at 2.8 million boxes, followed by apples at 2.5 million boxes, mandarins at 2.2 million boxes, and cherries at two million boxes. Plums, nectarines, and kiwifruit also moved through the facility.

"Our average volume used to hover around 10 to 12 million boxes, which we far exceeded this season," said Juan Contreras, manager of the inspection station representing the Chilean industry body Frutas de Chile.

The Teno facility also has access to real-time PCR molecular diagnostic technology, which allows inspectors to identify quarantine-significant pests and pathogens. The technology supports SAG's phytosanitary operations and can help streamline certification for export shipments.

The station, which is a joint operation with the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), served more than 180 export companies during the season. 

SAG and USDA inspectors work together at the facility to carry out the clearance and certification procedures required for Chilean fruit entering the US market.

*All images courtesy of SAG.

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