Good weather is predicted to produce exports of 53,000 tons of cherries from Chile and 2,600 tons from Argentina in the 2010-11 season, according to estimates from iQonsulting, a fruit industry consultancy.

Cherry exports are forecast to rise by 60% in Chile and 30% in Argentina for the 2010-11 season, according to the first export estimates for the 2010-11 season, published by iQonsulting, a Chile-based fruit industry consultancy.

Exports from Chile are expected to reach 53,000 tons, while Argentina is expected to ship 2,600 tons. Good weather so far this year has raised expectations, the report said.

Unlike the previous season, cherry orchards in and around Mendoza, Neuquén and Los Antiguos sprouted and flowered very well this year, similar to what has been seen in all the production zones in Chile, from Region V and south.

Although there are still risks of late frost and rain in Chile, weather conditions until now have appeared favorable for production, except for frost on October 1 and 2, which did not majorly affect the orchards.

Exporters hope the harvest matches the expectations this season. The demand is there, and the markets are well diversified.

Asia was the biggest market last season, taking in 42% of shipments, surpassing the historical leader, the United States, the report said. This situation is positive, considering that the economic situations in the U.S. and Europe are troubling.

Photograph: www.inta.gov.ar

Source: iQonsulting/www.freshfruitportal.com