The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is no longer a hard nut for Chile to crack after it was revealed that the value of exports to the region rose 19 percent to over $425 million in the first 11 months of 2018,
The growth is partly attributed to robust Chilean walnut exports, according to the latest research from the Trade Commission of Chile.
As an agricultural-friendly country, Chile has around 20 products that are among the most exported globally, including fresh grapes and blueberries, salmon fillets, dried plums and dried apples.
During the review period, Chilean exports of nuts to the world exceeded $421 million, with shipments of walnuts to the Middle East topping $50 million, with the UAE accounting for $26 million, followed by Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.
The South American country – whose nuts are renowned for their wide range of health benefits – will be looking to further build on trade links at the 24th edition of Gulfood 2019, which will be held at Dubai World Trade Centre next week.
Carlos Salas, Trade Commissioner of Chile in Dubai, said: “Thanks to the quality, flavour and yield of our produce and the evolving tastes of Middle East residents, tourist and business visitors, Chilean nut exporters are keen to explore opportunities in the region and introduce even more variation to restaurants and supermarkets.
“The region is fast becoming a hotbed for foodies eager to experience the latest trends on the global culinary scene, combined with a large percentage of the population, particularly in Dubai, looking at healthier equivalents, providing good reason for many nut experts from Chile to refocus their regional expansion plans in the Middle East.”
A 27-strong delegation of Chilean exporters will be attending the week-long gastronomic showcase, up seven from 2018, in a bid to increase the $20 million deals completed at last year’s show.
They will be showcasing almonds, raisins, dehydrated plums, dehydrated fruits, plum juice, juice powder, peeled and instant oats, concentrated juices of grapes, berries and maqui; honey, olive oil and walnuts.
During Gulfood, Chile will launch its new online platform, ChileB2B, the e-commerce cross-border platform of ProChile, the Chilean Export Promotion Bureau.
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