Production, Packaging Technology, and Exports Projections of Southern Hemisphere Apples

Chile has solidified its position as a leading apple exporter in the southern hemisphere, shipping over 40 different varieties abroad. The top five varieties in terms of volume are Royal Gala, Richard, Granny Smith, Gala, and Tenroy Royal Gala. Gala stands out as the most popular variety, with an impressive volume of 1,578,148 tons. Although this figure remains consistent compared to the previous year, it represents an 11.4% decrease compared to the average of the last three years.

In 2023, Chile positioned itself as the seventh-largest apple exporter globally, with a 6% market share. The total export volume reached 468,000 tons, generating a FOB value of USD 506 million. Latin America was the main destination market, absorbing 55% of shipments, with Brazil and Colombia standing out as key trading partners. Europe accounted for a 17% share, while North America closed with a 12% share, registering the highest average prices throughout all seasons in 2023, according to the 2024 "International Apple Market" Yearbook by iQonsulting.

For 2024, projections indicate a modest 1.1% increase in the southern hemisphere harvest, reaching a total of 4,775,530 tons. Despite an 8.4% decrease in production, Chile is expected to still contribute significantly to the total volume, with 912,000 tons. South Africa will remain the top producer, with a projection of 1,396,659 tons (+4.6% compared to 2023), followed by Brazil (1,100,000 tons, in line with 2023), New Zealand (557,871 tons, +14.7%), Argentina (501,000 tons, -4.8%), and Australia (308,000 tons, +5.8%).

In terms of exports, a 5.3% increase in shipped volumes is expected, reaching 493,000 tons. Leading countries like South Africa also anticipate growth, contributing to the overall development of pome fruit exports globally.

PacLife Technology for Apple Packaging

Paclife, a leading innovation company, has developed the revolutionary Film Flowpack technology, designed to preserve the freshness and quality of apples on e-commerce and retail shelves. This patented, active, and intelligent film has been meticulously designed to operate effectively in variable temperature environments and cold chains, representing a significant milestone in the industry.

Beyond its protective properties, PacLife's Film Flowpack adds aesthetic value to the product through its basal seal and gloss. This innovative approach not only preserves the freshness of apples but also enhances their presentation on shelves. Additionally, the implementation of this technology facilitates process automation, improving efficiency in plant packaging and reducing stock space, with a notable average saving of 56% in plastic usage, translating into significant packaging cost savings.

The versatility of PacLife's technology is evident in its ability to adapt to various needs and fruit species. The Film Flowpack offers excellent presentation and quality packaging, standing out as an effective and efficient option for preserving and presenting Chilean apples.

Furthermore, PacLife offers other packaging alternatives, including bags in different formats such as Fixed Weight, 3 Pounds, Pounch Bags, Modified Atmosphere Bags (19 kg format), Fixed Weight Apple Packaging, LDPE Wicket Bags with perforations and printing.

Chilean apples continue to be a fundamental pillar of the country's export offering, and packaging technology innovation, such as that provided by PacLife with its Film Flowpack, not only contributes to maintaining competitiveness in the international market but also highlights the quality and freshness of this flagship Chilean product.

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