What is it all about?

This project supports a study tour to Chile for Australian cherry growers so that they can learn from Chile’s large-scale cherry production and export systems, particularly practices that support fruit quality, postharvest handling and access to international markets. Chile is the world’s leading southern hemisphere cherry exporter, and the project gives Australian growers a chance to see how production, packhouse and export systems operate at scale.

The project works through a structured, in-country program across Santiago and the central valleys of Maule, O’Higgins and Valparaiso. Activities include a mini research symposium hosted by Pontificia Universidad Católica, an export workshop with Frutas de Chile, and visits to research orchards, commercial orchards and packhouses. The tour includes guided discussions, daily reflection sessions and evaluation to help participants identify practical ideas relevant to Australian conditions.

The project addresses the challenge of Australia being a small player in global cherry exports, with increasing competition from high-volume producers. By building grower knowledge of production systems, postharvest technologies and export logistics, the project aims to strengthen industry capability and readiness for future market growth.

Expected outcomes include clearer understanding of global trends, improved decision-making at farm and business level, and stronger industry connections. Learnings will be shared through extension materials such as a newsletter article, online webinar, conference presentation and post-tour reporting to support broader adoption across the Australian cherry industry.