China and Chile Strengthen Economic Ties with Sea Urchin Shipments

The economic cooperation between China and Chile reached new heights with the recent arrival of the second shipment of sea urchins at Shenzhen customs, closely following the delivery of the initial batch.

On April 8, a total of 20 packages containing 115 kilograms of refrigerated Chilean sea urchins arrived in Shenzhen via air freight from Santiago de Chile. Zhang Lei, the general manager of Shenzhen Lift Import and Export company, highlighted the significance of this development, stating, “Following our first import of 48 kilograms of Chilean sea urchins on March 31, market demand has been robust. As a result, we are now providing fresh sea urchin meat biweekly or more frequently, catering to the entire national market.”

As a key entry point for Chilean products into China, Shenzhen serves as a barometer for Sino-Chilean economic and commercial cooperation. Approximately one-third of Chilean cherries exported to China are routed through the port of Shenzhen, transported inland via rail. Conversely, a significant volume of mobile phones, computers, and automobiles manufactured in Shenzhen find their way to Chile.

The successful importation of chilled Chilean sea urchins underscores the ongoing expansion of economic exchanges between China and Chile. Despite the challenges associated with preserving and transporting sea urchins over long distances, their popularity among consumers worldwide remains unwavering due to their exquisite taste and nutritional value.

To enhance the efficiency of sea urchin transportation while maintaining quality standards, Shenzhen Customs collaborated closely with businesses and stakeholders to streamline the entire process, from unloading and storage to inspection and certification issuance.

Zhang emphasized the remarkable efficiency achieved in the customs clearance process, stating, “From the moment of flight arrival to customs clearance, the entire procedure was completed in just four hours.”

As the first South American nation to establish diplomatic ties with China, Chile continues to play a pivotal role in facilitating economic and commercial exchanges with the Asian giant, bridging geographical divides. China has consistently been Chile’s largest trading partner and primary export destination, while Chile ranks as China’s third-largest trading partner in Latin America. Key Chilean exports to China include copper, lithium minerals, cherries, pork, and wine, underscoring the diversity and depth of bilateral trade relations.

Source: Portal Portuario

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