Chile has been a world leader in the export of dehydrated plums, and the first months of 2025 allow us to take stock of how the sector is evolving with respect to the successful 2024. Through an analysis of figures, destinations, trends and projections, we identify both signs of consolidation and emerging challenges that will mark the future of the industry.
Comparison of key figures 2024 vs. 2025
| Year/Period | Volume exported (MT) | Value (USD million) | Number of destinations | China's share (%) |
| 2024 (total) | 88.897 | 255 | 78 | 33% (volume) |
| First quarter 2025 | 12.897 | 39,5 | 48 | 22.7% (volume) |
| Jan-Feb 2025 | 10.129 | 29,7 | - | ~25% (volume) |
The figures show a moderate decrease in volume compared to the 2024 rate, but with a stable trend in export value, supported by better international prices.
Exported volume: variation and reasons behind the change
In the first three months of 2025, 12,897 metric tons were exported, a slightly lower figure than the monthly rate of 2024. This moderate decline can be explained by:
- Global inventory adjustments.
- Climatic factors that affected production.
- A more gradual start to the season.
Analysis of the value of exports and international prices
Despite the decline in volume, export revenues reached US$ 39.5 million in the first quarter of 2025. This figure is consistent with the upward price trend observed since mid-2024, resulting from:
- Global inventory write-offs.
- Tight production in other countries.
- Stable demand in high value markets.
Evolution in the number of international destinations
The number of destination countries decreased from 78 in 2024 to 48 in the first quarter of 2025. This is due to the natural seasonality of exports and the progressive development of the season. However, the number is expected to increase as the year progresses.
Reduction in the concentration of the Chinese market
A relevant change is the decrease in dependence on the Chinese market, which went from 33% of volume in 2024 to 22.7% in the first months of 2025. This indicates a healthy diversification of the Chilean export profile.
Emerging markets with a leading role in 2025
Countries such as Poland, Germany, the United Kingdom and other European economies have gained participation in the destination portfolio. This reflects the success of promotional strategies and the promotion of product quality.
Main trends highlighted in the sector
Geographic diversification is underway, with new destinations gaining ground.
2. Stability of international prices, which favors profitability.
3. Consolidation of Chilean leadership in the face of pressure from new global competitors.
Factors explaining the moderate slowdown in 2025
- Less favorable climate in some producing areas.
- Reduction of available inventories at the beginning of the season.
- Logistical and commercial adjustments in distribution channels.
International plum market outlook
Despite the slower start in terms of volume, the outlook for the rest of the year is positive:
- Better production is projected for the second half of the year.
- Prices are expected to remain at stable or rising levels.
- Chile's value-added and differentiation strategy can consolidate new markets.
Chile continues to be a global benchmark in the dried plum industry. The comparison between 2024 and the first quarter of 2025 shows a mature, resilient and adaptable market. Despite a lower export volume, market diversification and price stability sustain Chile's leadership in the industry.
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