Competitive Index of the Chilean Shelled Walnut Exports

In recent years, global consumption of nuts has increased considerably indicating a world growth in demand. In this context, it is necessary to evaluate the competitiveness of exporting countries, like Chile in this export business of nut fruits. This work analyzes current market size and potential of the Chilean shelled walnut exports in addition to determine the quantitatively competitiveness of this market.

The analysis was conducted for the period between 2002 and 2008, using indicators of competitiveness: relative trade balance, exchangeability, degree of export and import feasibility and indicator of specialization indexes. To determine the opportunities to develop profitable business, two models were developed: One that would assess the competitiveness of the main exporters through what has been called "matrix insertion into the international market". The second one deals with a "matrix of international demand"

 It was subsequently compiled a ranking to establish which exporting countries are more competitive in the business.
The analysis showed that Chile proved to be highly competitive in shelled walnuts business of exports and these competitive capabilities showed to be superior to main competitors, U.S.A. and China. First place in competitiveness showed to be the Republic of Moldavia; the second place, it is sheared by Mexico and Chile. Nevertheless, both Mexico and Moldavia, according to the “Entry to the Market Index”, are decreasing their market participation compared to Chile that presents the optimum and even increasing exports participation.
There are still unexplored markets, which are potential buyers of Chilean shelled walnuts:  the main China, the United States and Ukraine, which despite being the leading exporters, are also major consumers of walnuts. Moreover, there is a offseason advantage for Chilean supply.