The mascots at the Chilean Cherry Ice and Snow Festival in Changchun. [Photo provided to gojilin.gov.cn]

The Chilean Cherry Ice and Snow Festival opened on Jan 10 at Changchun Ice and Snow New World, Northeast China's Jilin province. The event was hosted by the Chilean Cherry Committee under the Chilean Fruit Exporters Association.

The opening ceremony was attended by Chile's ambassador to China, Pablo Arriaran Ahumada; Yu Lu, vice president of the China Chamber of Commerce of Import and Export of Foodstuffs (Native Produce & Animal By-Products); Ivan Marambio, president of the Chilean Fruit Exporters Association; and Claudia Soler, executive director of the Chilean Cherry Committee.

Ambassador Pablo Arriaran Ahumada noted that China-Chile bilateral trade reached $61.66 billion in 2024, 8.6 times the 2006 level and the highest per-capita bilateral trade volume between China and any South American country. He highlighted cherries as key in this trade relationship, with nearly $3.3 billion worth of Chilean cherries exported to China during the 2024-25 season.

Yu Lu said the festival showcases close cooperation between China and Chile in agricultural trade. By jointly cultivating consumer demand and creating innovative consumption scenarios, both parties are working to promote the sustainable, long-term development of the cherry industry.

Ivan Marambio described Chilean cherries as a truly outstanding product, grown in fertile soil, irrigated with water from the Andes Mountains, and subjected to strict post-harvest sorting. Each season, premium-grade cherries are carefully selected for export to the Chinese market.

A giant cherry-shaped ice sculpture. [Photo provided to gojilin.gov.cn]

At the venue, visitors were treated to free tastings of fresh Chilean cherries. Organizers also introduced creative local specialties, including traditional Northeast China candied fruit skewers made with cherries. Giant cherry-themed ice sculptures became popular photo spots, while a range of themed interactive experiences offered visitors a sweet greeting from the Southern Hemisphere amid the northern winter cold.