Perú supera a Chile en valores de exportaciones y levanta alerta en gremios agrícolas

Agricultural Export Dynamics: Chile vs. Peru

Overview of the Shift in Export Leadership

• The discussion begins with a focus on the recent shift in agricultural export leadership from Chile to Peru, raising concerns among agricultural sectors and political circles.

• In 2025, Peru surpassed Chile in export values, marking a significant change in South America's fresh food trade dynamics. Peru's exports exceeded $14 billion, while Chile's were just over $13 billion.

Factors Contributing to Peru's Success

• Victor Catán, president of Fe de Fruta, attributes this shift to sustained agricultural development strategies in Peru over the past two decades. He notes that earlier exports from Peru were significantly lower.

• Catán emphasizes that current growth is due to public policies focused on productivity, market openness, and international promotion. He warns that this situation directly affects Chilean fruit competitiveness and calls for long-term strategies to regain market position.

Perspectives on Chilean Competitiveness

• Iván Marambio, president of an agricultural organization, offers a more cautious perspective. He argues that the issue isn't about product volume or quality but rather about maintaining high export figures despite competition.

• Marambio points out that while Chile continues to excel in fresh fruit exports (with figures far exceeding those of Peru), there are complexities regarding seasonal production capabilities between the two countries.

Political Concerns Regarding Agriculture

• Gloria Navillán, a member of the National Libertarian Party and chairwoman of the Agriculture Commission, expresses concern over the lack of recognition for agriculture's importance in Chile over decades. She highlights systemic issues affecting the sector’s growth and sustainability.