Chile will be able to export shelled almonds to China

Chile has recently made a significant stride in the agricultural sector by signing a customs protocol with China, allowing for the export of shelled almonds, tapping into China's annual import of approximately 100 thousand tons. With around 8,700 hectares dedicated to almond cultivation, mainly in the O'Higgins and Metropolitan Regions, and an annual production of about 12 thousand tons, Chile managed to export 7,711 tons in the 2023 - 2024 season. This agreement is particularly beneficial for Chile due to its ability to produce almonds of superior quality, which fetches about 20% more in price compared to the main supplier, California. Despite the challenges of competing in a global market dominated by the United States, Australia, and Spain, which mechanize production and promote consumption, the entry into the Chinese market is expected to boost Chile's almond cultivation. However, geographical and climatic limitations may prevent Chile from becoming a major player in the global almond production industry.