In a meaningful step for the floral export industry, 21 lots of lily bulbs (Lilium sp.) spanning nearly 19 hectares were recently inspected in Bulnes, Chile. This inspection was conducted collaboratively by the Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG) and inspectors from Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) as part of the certification program for Export Silvoagricultural Products for the 2024-2025 season. The region’s unique climatic conditions, notably its cold hours, make it an ideal location for lily cultivation, which cannot be replicated further north.
The inspection took place at the San Luis and San Manuel farms, owned by Mountain Bulbs, ensuring that the bulbs meet the stringent phytosanitary requirements necessary for export to Japan. According to the regional director of SAG Ñuble, the ongoing monitoring throughout the reproductive cycle of the lilies is crucial. This vigilance ensures that the bulbs exported in a vegetative state are free from quarantine pests mandated by the destination countries, thereby maintaining the phytosanitary integrity of chilean exports.
Chile’s domestic market shows promising potential for floral bulb production, bolstered by favorable agroecological and sanitary conditions. The country’s production aligns with the off-season for the Northern Hemisphere, enhancing its appeal in international markets. The bulb production sector in Ñuble has gained momentum, with 206 export lots registered nationwide for the current season, 35 of which are from Ñuble. In the previous 2023-2024 season, the region successfully exported over 7 million bulbs, primarily to Japan, china, Taiwan, Vietnam, and the European Union.
To sustain these favorable conditions, rigorous inspection and oversight are essential. These processes not onyl ensure the health of the exported material but also uphold the reputation of Chile’s phytosanitary standards.initial inspections by SAG inspectors focus on confirming that mother plants are free from viruses and quarantine diseases in target markets. this involves sampling both plants and soil to eliminate the presence of harmful pathogens and nematodes. In the case of Japan, a joint inspection is conducted, with inspectors traveling to Chile to verify the absence of disease symptoms in the plant material destined for international markets.
A Conversation on Chile’s lily Bulb Export Industry: An interview with Dr. Maria López, Floral Export Specialist
Editor: Good morning, Dr. López. It’s great to have you here to discuss the recent developments in Chile’s floral export industry, especially concerning lily bulbs. Could you share your insights on the importance of the recent inspections in Bulnes?
Dr. López: Good morning! The inspections in Bulnes are indeed a important step for Chile’s floral export sector.Inspecting 21 lots of lily bulbs over nearly 19 hectares assures not just compliance with international standards but also reinforces chile’s reputation as a reliable exporter. This joint effort between the Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG) and the Japanese ministry of Agriculture showcases a commitment to phytosanitary integrity, which is critical for successful international trade.
Editor: It sounds like those inspections are crucial for maintaining quality. How do the unique climatic conditions in chile play a role in lily cultivation, and why is this vital for exports?
Dr. López: Chile’s unique climatic conditions,particularly the cold hours necessary for lily growth,provide a distinct advantage.These conditions cannot be replicated in the Northern Hemisphere, making Chile an ideal location for producing high-quality lily bulbs. This seasonal advantage enhances our competitiveness in the global market, allowing us to supply bulbs during the off-season for northern producers.
Editor: You mentioned that the ongoing monitoring of the lilies is vital. Can you elaborate on why this continuous oversight is necessary?
Dr. López: Certainly! Continuous monitoring throughout the reproductive cycle of lilies helps ensure that the bulbs remain free from pests and diseases, which can affect both quality and marketability. Special attention is given to confirming that the mother plants are healthy and free from quarantine pests. for instance, sampling soil and plants helps identify any potential issues before they escalate, ensuring that the bulbs exported are in peak condition.
Editor: The data indicates that Ñuble is becoming a substantial player in the floral bulb production sector. Can you explain the importance of this region in Chile’s overall export strategy?
Dr. López: absolutely. Ñuble has shown remarkable development in floral bulb production. With 35 of the 206 export lots registered nationwide being from this region, it’s a testament to the area’s favorable conditions for such cultivation. In the last season, exporting over 7 million bulbs primarily to countries like Japan and the EU highlights how important this region is in diversifying Chile’s export portfolio and establishing stronger international ties.
Editor: That’s extraordinary. What would you say are the practical implications of these inspections and exports for local farmers and the community?
Dr. López: The inspections not only provide assurance of quality for international markets but also boost local farmers’ confidence in producing and exporting their products. By meeting stringent standards, farmers can access higher-value markets, which often results in better prices for their products.It also encourages lasting farming practices and promotes the long-term health of the soil and plants, leading to a more robust agricultural community overall.
Editor: As the sector continues to grow, what advice would you offer to new farmers considering entering the floral bulb market in Chile?
Dr.López: My advice would be to invest in understanding the phytosanitary regulations and quality standards that target markets require. Participating in training sessions organized by SAG or agricultural authorities is a great way to stay informed. Additionally, focusing on sustainable practices and building strong relationships with buyers can significantly enhance market access and success in this competitive field.
Editor: thank you, Dr. López, for sharing your insights on this vital aspect of Chile’s economy. Your expertise sheds light on how the floral export industry is poised for growth with proper vigilance and quality assurance.
Dr. López: Thank you for having me! It’s encouraging to see interest in this sector, and I look forward to seeing how it evolves in the future.
