Chile’s Avocado Crops Mostly Unharmed By Quake

SANTIAGO, Chile – On Saturday 27th February 2010 Chile suffered an earthquake measuring 8.8 on the Richter scale that devastated the central and central south regions of Chile. This earthquake was the biggest to hit Chile in more then 50 years.

The Comite de Palta Hass de Chile (Chilean Hass Avocado Committee) just completed a week long review of the sector through its membership and we have determined that the sector was mostly unharmed by the earthquake and is now operating normally. The Chilean Hass Avocado Committee is a non profit association which represents Chiles Hass avocado production and export sectors. Its membership represents over 75% of Chiles total Hass avocado exports to the world.

Furthermore as of today close to 98% of Chiles 2010-2011 export crop, which is shipped to export markets between July to March, has already been exported — including a record 300 million pounds to the United States.

The main export gateway for Chilean Hass avocados, the Port of Valparaso, is also now working at almost full capacity. Highways from the avocado growing areas and packing facilities are also in good condition as well as domestic and international communications.

As it would be expected the national and international media is covering the most damaged areas of the country where there was substantial destruction and our prayers go to all of the people that have been affected by this terrible earthquake.

Both the Chilean public and private sectors as well as the international community are working diligently to help the people that were most affected by the quake and the Chilean Hass Avocado Committee would like to thank everyone for their continued support and assistance during this difficult period for our country.

Source: Chilean Hass Avocado Committee