Due to a late frost in Chile, the country has declared a state of emergency with an estimated $1 billion worth of damage to fruit crops. According to Reuters, the frost affected the central region, an area known as the main fruit and wine producing area in Chile.
The early estimate of up to $1 billion of damage from the extensive cold snap in late September was attributed to fruit trade association Fedefruta. The association estimates the frost damaged between 35 percent and 61 percent of stone fruit crops, 57 percent of almonds, 48 percent of kiwi crops and 20 percent of table grapes. It is important to note that Fedefruta also stated most crops had not yet reached full flower and it was not yet possible to give an exact damage forecast.
Growers tell us that at this point they really don't have the full picture because Chile is such a long country. Though the severity is spread out, the indications are clear that the early fruit was definitely damaged.
Chile has had several frosts since September 17th until now, with 2 or 3 hard frosts (depending on location).
Producer Fruticola Viconto said in a statement that recent low temperatures, especially last weekend, had hit about 45 percent of its production of peaches, cherries and other fruit. Items that include lettuce and squash had also been affected but there was still time for them to recover, Agriculture Minister Mayol said.
A blueberry grower harvesting in Chile tells us that Zone 6 has seen a huge impact on blueberries. Some growers are estimating that 30% of the blueberry crop had been damaged which will affect harvest volumes from November to December. This recent estimate mostly effects early fruit which is typically air freighted. Retailers should not shy away from December and January promotions, growers tell us, as blueberry volumes during that time should be in good supply.
Reuters reported, "These frosts are the worst that agriculture has faced in 84 years, impacting the area from Coquimbo to Bio Bio," as stated by the national agricultural society.
Blueberry growers report that, in the affected areas, they are hearing there is a high percentage of loss in the ONeal, Star, Jewel, and Emerald varieties. Some estimates are saying over 2,000 tons of early production could be lost.
Leslie Simmons, Marketing Manager, Dave's Specialty Imports, tells AndNowUKnow, "It looks like the Chilean frost will affect the first weeks of arrivals in November, with volume starting to increase as we move into early December. We can only hope there will be no additional frost and wait to see how things play out in the market. "
Stay tuned to AndNowUKnow for updates as the country assesses the impact of the late frost.
Chilean Late Frost
