Frutas de Chile is mourning the death of Ronald Bown Fernández, the historic president of its association, who led the organization for more than three decades.
“Bown led with vision, generosity and an unwavering commitment to the sector,” Iván Marambio Castaño, president of Frutas de Chile, says in a statement. “Through his leadership, Chile became one of the world’s leading exporters of fresh fruit, internationally recognized for its quality, reliability and excellence. He was a tireless advocate for producers and exporters, and at the same time, a deeply respected and approachable leader known for his integrity and dedication to the common good.”
Bown also played a pivotal role in fostering dialogue and building consensus between the public and private sectors, helping to strengthen a shared vision for Chile’s economic development, says Marambio. His ability to bring people together and his constant willingness to seek common ground contributed significantly to the advancement of policies, regulations and long-term strategies that positioned the fruit industry as one of the most important sectors of the Chilean economy.
The late president is also credited with holding the conviction that sustainable growth can only be achieved through collaboration. As such, he championed an institutional approach founded on trust, cooperation and collective effort among government authorities, producers, exporters and local communities.
“His leadership extended far beyond the fruit sector itself, making him a benchmark for how constructive dialogue and public-private collaboration can contribute to national development and strengthen Chile’s position on the global stage,” says Marambio.
Frutas de Chile says it extends its deepest and heartfelt condolences to Bown’s family, friends, colleagues and the entire fruit community.
“Today, Chile’s fruit export industry stands as a reflection of his enduring legacy — an example of commitment, vision, and leadership that inspired generations and continues to guide our work every day,” says Marambio.
