SANTIAGO, Chile – Defying global economic headwinds, Chile has achieved a historic milestone in food exports, surging to $12.46 billion in the first half of 2025. This 9.5% year-on-year growth, reported by ProChile, the national export promotion agency, underscores the country’s rising dominance as a supplier of premium, sustainably produced foods worldwide.
Chile Food Exports: Resilience in Global Markets
Despite geopolitical uncertainties and logistical challenges, Chile’s agricultural and seafood sectors thrived. Ignacio Fernández, Director General of ProChile, credits this success to strategic market diversification and Chile’s hard-earned reputation for safety and sustainability. Our commitment to quality and ethical production resonates globally,” Fernández stated. China and the U.S. remain top buyers, but significant gains were seen across Asia (notably Japan and South Korea), the EU, and Latin America. Fresh produce led the charge, with cherries hitting a record $2.24 billion (up 14.4%), while grape and kiwifruit exports grew 10.9% and 11.6%, respectively. Walnuts soared 53.6%, and hazelnut exports more than doubled.
Key Sectors Driving Unprecedented Growth
Seafood and Proteins: Anchoring Export Value
Salmon, Chile’s highest-value food export, earned $3.29 billion—a 4.5% increase—fueled by demand from the U.S., Brazil, and the EU. Other seafood like jack mackerel, mussels, and cuttlefish also posted robust gains. Poultry exports surged 22% to $253 million, reflecting expanded processing capabilities. Dehydrated fruits and meats rounded out the growth, proving Chile’s ability to add value beyond raw commodities.
Sustainability as a Competitive Edge
Chile’s focus on eco-certification and ethical sourcing has become a unique selling point. Over 75% of salmon farms now meet international sustainability standards, while fruit producers leverage climate advantages for year-round harvests. The country’s geographical isolation, once a hurdle, now ensures pest-free produce coveted by high-end markets. As Fernández notes, “Global consumers prioritize traceability—and Chile delivers.”
Chile’s food export triumph in H1 2025—reaching $12.46 billion—proves that reliability, quality, and sustainability can thrive amid uncertainty. With diversified markets and value-added innovation, the nation is poised to feed the world’s demand for premium products. Explore ProChile’s full report to understand how strategic agility fuels this success.
Must Know
Q: What drove Chile’s record food export growth?
A: Key factors include surging demand for cherries (+14.4%), salmon (+4.5%), and nuts (+53.6% for walnuts), alongside market diversification beyond China and the U.S. into Europe and Asia.
Q: How does sustainability impact Chile’s food exports?
A: Strict environmental certifications attract premium buyers. For example, most salmon farms adhere to global standards like ASC, while fruit growers use water-efficient techniques.
Q: Which Chilean food exports saw the highest growth?
A: Hazelnuts more than doubled in value, walnuts rose 53.6%, and poultry jumped 22%. Cherries remain the top fruit export at $2.24 billion.
Q: How is ProChile supporting exporters?
A: The agency funds trade missions, promotes brands abroad, and provides market intelligence—critical for navigating tariffs and logistics.
Q: Are climate challenges affecting Chile’s agriculture?
A: While droughts persist, investments in drip irrigation and drought-resistant crops mitigate risks. Unique geography still enables counter-seasonal harvests.
Q: What’s next for Chile’s export strategy?
A: Focus areas include expanding organic offerings, boosting processed goods (like dried fruits), and targeting India and Southeast Asia.
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