Chilean dry fruit exports to UAE increase 75% to US$43.8 million in 2019

• South American country out in force at Gulfood 2020 with record 29-strong delegation

The popularity of Chilean nuts has surged in the UAE, with the number of exported dry fruit products from the South American country, between January to September 2019, increasing 75% to US$ 43.8 million from US$25 million during the same period in 2018

According to the latest research from the Trade Commission of Chile, this growth has largely been attributed to robust Chilean walnut, hazelnut and almond exports.

During 2019, Chilean dry fruit exports to the world reached US$572 million, with walnuts accounting for 76% of these shipments while hazelnuts and almonds accounted for 13% and 10%, respectively. At present, Chile is the second largest global exporter of walnuts in shells and the third largest exporter of no-shell walnuts, behind the US and Mexico.

The UAE – and indeed the wider GCC region – has become a melting pot of ethnicities, resulting in a globally attuned F&B destination. Chilean nut exporters are keen to explore and capitalise on the opportunities in the region and introduce even more variations to both restaurants and supermarkets at the 25^th anniversary of Gulfood 2020, which will be held between February 16-20 at Dubai World Trade Centre.

Carlos Salas, Trade Commissioner of Chile in Dubai, said: “Chilean walnuts have amassed a global reputation thanks to their outstanding flavour, distinctive light colour and prolonged freshness. From the natural and nutritious conditions they’re grown in, to the sustainable and intrinsic processing procedure, we’ve developed a nut that is lauded the world over.    

“These attributes, combined with the high-quality standards demanded by countries around the world, has seen Chile become the number one walnut exporting country in the southern hemisphere and one of the top five exporters worldwide.”

A 29-strong delegation - the largest number of Chilean exporters to date - will be attending the 25^th anniversary of the week-long gastronomic showcase, in a bid to increase the US$21million worth of deals completed at last year’s show.

This year, for the first time, the Chilean delegation at Gulfood has elected to exhibit on two pavilions in separate halls – World Food (Booth S-H16) and Pulses, Grains & Cereals (Booth Z2-C3) – showcasing raisins, dried plums, walnuts with and without shell, almonds, cranberries, dried peaches and apricots, oatmeal, whole grains and other formats, olive oil, lupine and concentrated juices, amongst others.

The pavilion will be officially opened at 11am on February 16^th, providing a taste of Chile everyday through a range of exquisite, sample dishes which will be cooked live across the pavilions. A networking evening will take place on February 18^th at Toro Toro, Grosvenor House Dubai.

“Gulfood has become a key exhibition for Chile over the years and we are excited about once again showcasing exactly what our country has to offer - as the region continues to become an increasingly important part of our overall export business,” added Salas.

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About ProChile

ProChile is the institution of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Chile in charge of promoting exports of products and services. ProChile contributes to dissemination of foreign investment opportunities and tourism promotion.

ProChile has a network of over 57 offices worldwide and 16 Export Centers in Chile which have experience and tools to help boost the export sector and position Chile’s attributes in international markets.

In a globalized world with highly competitive markets, ProChile, in its role as trade facilitator is able to provide to international consumers a wide range of products and services from the most diverse sectors. ProChile presents business opportunities to thousands of international buyers thus improving the quality of life for millions of people around the world.

Its economy, support to entrepreneurship, political stability, public security, ideal climatic conditions allow Chile to develop products and services with a unique quality in the region, which added to strict adherence to fair trade practices and sustainability, make our exports attractive with reliable suppliers and a high level of innovation.

We are interested in identifying strategic partners, distributors, traders and consumers in international markets who see in Chilean products and services the opportunity to enhance their business strategies.

We invite you to get in touch with any of ProChile’s 57 offices in the world, where you can organize business meeting schedules, get advice on the qualities of the Chilean productive and services sectors, as well as information on investment opportunities in Chile. Also, at the offices you can learn more about Chile´s wonderful tourist attractions.

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© Press Release 2020