The Board of Directors of the Fruit Exporters Association of Chile (ASOEX) has joined forces with the FUNDACION DESAFIO LEVANTEMOS CHILE in relief efforts connected to recent fires that impacted thousands of people in Chile. The organizations will work together to rebuild houses and support infrastructure (schools, police, firemen, etc.), in areas of greatest need following the fires.
During a recent Board meeting, ASOEX confirmed a financial contribution of three pesos per box exported during the 2015-16 season, for a total of over US$600,000. Ronald Bown, Chairman of the Board, states, “Our industry saw a great need to reach out and support our fellow Chileans in the aftermath of the fires. Although much more is needed, we hope that our contribution will provide some assistance with relief efforts.”
The regions most affected by the fires are Maule, Bío Bío, O’Higgins, Metropolitana, Araucanía and Valparaiso, with total impacted acreage around 600,000 hectares. According to information provided by the National Forestry Corporation, of the 44 forest fires that had been active nationally, 38 are under control, 3 are still burning and 3 have been extinguished. Impact to the fresh fruit industry was minimal, apart from the destruction of a fruit packing house in the town of Chépica.
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