Chile’s new banana import rules boost India’s exports opportunities

Chile’s revised banana import regulations have created new opportunities for Indian exporters, offering extended compliance timelines and eased requirements. India’s banana exports climbed to US$ 300 million in 2023–24, supported by government initiatives and modern farming methods, enhancing the country’s global market presence and export competitiveness.

 

Image Source: Pixabay

Chile has revised its phytosanitary requirements for the import of fresh bananas (Musa spp.) from all origins, creating a significant opportunity for Indian exporters to expand into the Chilean market.

Highlights for Indian exporters include

• Extension of Deadline: The timeline to comply with Chile’s phytosanitary certification, overseen by the Servicio Agrícola y Ganadero (SAG), has been extended to June 2026, allowing more time for Indian exporters to adapt.
• Simplified Pest control Requirements: The removal of Diaspis boisduvalii from the pest list eases regulatory hurdles and lowers the risk of shipment rejections.
• Green-Matured Bananas accepted: Exporters from regions with specific fruit fly species (Bactrocera spp.) can now ship green-matured bananas, facilitating smoother compliance.
• Flexible Pre-Export Inspections: SAG will coordinate inspections with exporting country authorities, prioritizing nations with established trade relationships like India.
• Clear Guidelines to Prevent Shipment Rejections: Defined technical criteria aim to reduce the chances of rejections at the border, ensuring smoother entry into Chile.

With these regulatory changes, Indian banana exporters are well-positioned to increase their market share in Latin America, tapping into Chile’s growing demand with fewer compliance barriers.

India’s banana exports surged to US$ 300 million in 2023–24, up from US$ 176 million in 2022–23, marking a significant rise in the country’s global market presence. 

Once holding a modest 0.21% share of global banana exports in 2013, India has steadily grown its staket o 1.74% by 2023, driven by strategic efforts to strengthen its export capabilities.  This progress has been fuelled by government initiatives aimed at promoting banana cultivation, providing financial support to farmers, strengthening infrastructure and logistics, and expanding market access for exporters. At the same time, Indian farmers are adopting advanced agricultural practices, resulting in higher productivity and better fruit quality—further boosting India’s competitiveness in international markets.