Chilean fresh plum market to the U.S. reopens under Systems Approach

As of Jan. 25, the entry of Chilean plums under Systems Approach has been confirmed and published in the Federal Register, which is great news for U.S. retailers and consumers.

The United States is the main destination for fresh fruit from Chile in terms of volume, with a 31 percent share of total fresh fruit shipments exported to this market. In the case of plums, during the 2019-20 season, Chile exported more than 2 million boxes to the U.S. market. Plums will be available through April.

According to the notice in the Federal Register based on the findings of a commodity import evaluation document, the Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service of the USDA has determined that, in addition to the existing option of irradiation, plums from Chile may safely be imported under a systems approach to the U.S.

"The decision to allow systems approach is a win for everyone," said Ronald Bown, president of the Chilean Fruit Exporters Association. “Chile represents 99 percent of plum imports into the United States, so the re-entry of plums significantly impacts exporters, ports, importers, retailers and, most importantly, American consumers.  They will be able to enjoy fresh, quality plums in the months leading up to domestic production from the U.S.” 

Plums will be harvested in a much more sustainable manner, and quality standards upon arrival are anticipated to be high, leading to an even better eating experience.

The notice in the Federal Register can be viewed here.