Fruit and vegetable export sector of Chile : a case study of institutional cooperation

Chile was one of the few countries able to cope with this problem, as indicated by the steady growth in its economy during this period. The basis for this accomplishment is an economic system in which the private sector is the primary force for economic development, with the state playing a subsidiary role. The opening of the Chilean economy to the world market, both for imports and exports, and the vigorous promotion of exports which accompanied it, were key factors in this development. The most dynamic sector of the Chilean economy during the 1980"s was agribusiness, led by the fresh fruit and vegetable export industry. The spectacular growth of this industry, which has placed Chilean agriculture in the forefront among Latin American countries, deserves further examination. This study examines the industry from an institutional point of view and attempts to pinpoint the organizations -- and the interrelationships among them -- which were critical to its success. (Author abstract)