In a flavorful twist, Chilean cherries are taking center stage in the Chinese mainland this season! Prices for this premium fruit have dropped by half compared to last year, giving rise to what many are calling "cherry freedom" 🍒. A steady influx of Chilean shipments has delighted consumers and added a fresh beat to the region's culinary scene.
For seven consecutive years, Chile’s cherries have been a smash hit, with over 92% of production destined for the Chinese mainland. And it doesn't end there—Ecuadorian bananas, Nicaraguan honey, Peruvian blueberries, and Honduran whiteleg shrimp are now joining the party, expanding choices and deepening economic ties.
The Chinese mainland and Latin America and the Caribbean have been tightening their bonds since 2012. By 2024, bilateral trade soared to $500 billion—a nearly 40-fold increase since 2000. The Chinese mainland's cumulative direct investment in the region hit $600 billion, even with its annual investment surpassing that of the United States, as noted by Chinese Ambassador to Panama Xu Xueyuan.
Trade momentum continues to build through free trade agreements. The Chinese mainland has inked deals with five LAC countries—Peru, Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Nicaragua. With an early harvest arrangement signed with Honduras and enhanced negotiations to upgrade the FTA with Peru, these moves are fueling a fresh era of economic synergy. Talk about a sweet deal for global trade! 🚀
This dynamic mix of delicious products and groundbreaking trade agreements is transforming consumer markets and spurring robust economic growth between the Chinese mainland and the LAC region. Stay tuned as these vibrant ties keep reshaping global trade trends!
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
