Chile and Peru have firmly established themselves as two of the leading powerhouses in Latin America’s fruit and vegetable export sector

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Over the past three decades, both countries have expanded their reach into global markets, supplying high-quality fresh produce to North America, Europe, and increasingly Asia and the Middle East. Chile’s export sector grew rapidly from the mid-1990s, rising from approximately US$1.3 billion to over US$6 billion annually in fresh fruit exports. Peru, meanwhile, has experienced even more dynamic growth, expanding from under US$200 million in the 1990s to well over US$10 billion in agricultural exports by the mid-2020s, driven by aggressive investment and diversification.

Different Paths, Shared Success

While Chile and Peru share many similarities today, the foundations of their export industries differ significantly.

Chile’s export model dates back to the mid-20th century but accelerated sharply in the 1970s and 1980s with the adoption of free-market economic reforms led by the so-called “Chicago Boys.” These policies opened the economy to foreign investment and helped create what became known as the “Chilean Miracle.” Substantial capital inflows—particularly from the United States—supported the development of a highly efficient, export-oriented fruit industry.

Peru, by contrast, began its modern agricultural export expansion much later, gaining momentum in the 1990s and accelerating in the 2000s. Crucially, Peru benefited from Chile’s earlier experience, adopting best practices while avoiding many early-stage inefficiencies. In effect, Chile’s “first mover advantage” became Peru’s learning platform.

Evolving Export Portfolios

The two countries have developed distinct but overlapping product portfolios.

Chile’s export strength has traditionally been built on:

• Grapes
• Apples and pears
• Kiwifruit
• Avocados
• Stonefruit

Peru has positioned itself as a fast-moving, high-growth exporter with a focus on:

• Avocados
• Blueberries (now one of the world’s largest exporters)
• Grapes
• Citrus
• Mangoes

Peru was once the global leader in processed asparagus, but increased competition—particularly from China—pushed the country to pivot toward higher-value fresh products. This strategic shift has been highly successful, especially in blueberries, where Peru has become a dominant global supplier.

Key Industry Strengths

Both countries share several structural advantages that continue to drive growth:

• Strong export growth momentum, particularly in Peru, over the past decade
• Diversification of markets beyond traditional destinations like the US and the EU
• Rapid expansion into China, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East
• Extensive networks of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), enabling competitive market access
• Presence at major international trade events such as Fruit Logistica and PMA/IFPA
• Development of world-class production, logistics, and export companies

Trade and Market Access

Chile and Peru have been particularly proactive in securing and maintaining global market access.

Following Brexit, both countries successfully negotiated continuity agreements with the United Kingdom, ensuring uninterrupted trade flows. The UK remains an attractive destination due to its affluent consumer base and strong demand for premium fresh produce.

At the same time, Asia—especially China—has become a critical growth market. Both countries have invested heavily in logistics, cold-chain infrastructure, and phytosanitary compliance to meet the demands of these distant yet high-value markets.

Industry Leadership and Strategy

A key factor behind the success of both countries is strong institutional support.

In Chile, organisations such as ASOEX and ProChile play a central role in promoting and developing markets. In Peru, AGAP and PROMPERÚ provide similar leadership, supported by government coordination and private-sector alignment.

These institutions are well-funded, politically connected, and strategically focused, helping to position both countries as reliable, innovative suppliers in the global marketplace.

Branding and Market Positioning

Peru has successfully marketed its produce under the “Superfoods Peru” brand, emphasising health, sustainability, and origin. This branding has resonated strongly in international markets, particularly in Europe and Asia.

Chile, meanwhile, continues to promote its fruit as “world-class,” reinforcing its reputation for quality, reliability, and consistency. This long-term positioning strategy has helped maintain its premium status despite increasing competition.

Looking Ahead

Chile continues to expand into new markets, diversify its product mix, and strengthen its global presence. Growth opportunities remain strong in Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, and the Middle East, alongside established markets in the US and Europe.

Peru, however, is rapidly closing the gap. Its export sector remains highly dynamic, driven by innovation, investment, and an aggressive market expansion strategy. The country’s ability to scale production—particularly in blueberries and avocados—has positioned it as one of the most important players in the global fresh produce trade.

Both countries share a common mindset that underpins their success: a forward-looking, solution-driven approach to growth. Rather than focusing on barriers, the emphasis is on execution—identifying what needs to be done and doing it efficiently.

As global demand for fresh, high-quality produce continues to rise, Chile and Peru are set to remain at the forefront of the international fruit and vegetable export industry well into the future.

GTSA-SA

Founded in 2004, GTSA began as a single office in Buenos Aires. Since then, it has grown into a vibrant regional network, providing professional real estate marketing services to clients in AR, BR, CL, PY, PE, and UY.