Founded in 1989, the company has established itself as a leading Chilean exporter of dried fruits, with a particular focus on raisins and prunes. With an annual export volume of approximately 7,500 tons, it serves customers across global markets through products processed in top-certified facilities that meet the highest international standards.
Sourcing raw materials from carefully selected valleys in Chile—globally recognized for their exceptional growing conditions—the company combines origin, quality, and reliability. In this interview, Pedro Monti shares insights into the company’s export strategy, quality-driven approach, and vision for sustained growth in international markets.
Can you introduce Silvestres and its dried fruit portfolio?
Silvestres was founded in 1989 and, from the very beginning, positioned itself as one of Chile’s leading processors and exporters of raisins. As a natural step in its growth, prunes were incorporated into the portfolio and have since shown steady expansion. Today, the company handles a combined annual volume of 7,000 tons, complemented by other products such as walnuts and garlic.
How do you manage the diversity of prune and raisin varieties?
In the case of prunes, there is only one variety suitable for dehydration—a unique plum with exceptional characteristics in terms of solid content and skin quality. For raisins, there are currently many varieties linked to the development of table grapes. As a result, these different varieties are grouped into families according to their color and shape.
Which quality attributes are most valued by your clients?
What clients value most is that their specific requirements are met. Some clients request products with high moisture, low moisture, with or without oil. In every case, the key factor is meeting the client’s specifications, as each customer uses the products differently.
How do walnuts complement your dried fruit offering?
For Silvestres, walnuts are a niche product. We own our own orchard in the Rinconada de los Andes area, and the fruit from this farm is harvested for our walnut processing and export operations. Volumes are limited, so walnuts serve mainly as a complement to our core businesses.
What are your objectives for Gulfood Dubai 2026?
For us, each edition of Gulfood has brought new clients and markets. It is difficult to target a single specific market, but we have a particular interest in attracting new clients from North Africa and Southeast Asia.
Silvestres
Contact: Pedro Monti
Email: pmonti@silvestres.cl
