PrimLand Chile has begun its kiwifruit season, with sales focused on Asia and growing markets in Russia and North America.

Although frosts reduced Chile's total kiwifruit volume by about 60%, the French-based company estimated its volume had dropped by just 30% compared to a normal year. The company forecast a harvest of 2,000 MT.

"PrimLand Chile producers are situated principally in zones sheltered from the frost, meaning that its potential impact on the fruit (size, preservation etc.) has been reduced, even though fruit sizes are on average slightly smaller than in a normal year," a company press release said.

Sales manager Etienne Malaguti said fruit quality had been good in terms of sugar levels and dry matter.

PrimLand markets its Chilean kiwifruit under the Oscar® brand, which it says has gained familiarity in Asia.

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