USA: Mexican blueberry crossings through Arizona, California and Texas expected to increase slightly

Specialty crops grower-shippers are increasingly voicing concern over rising petroleum prices. These costs affect the industry not only through high freight rates for transporting produce to markets but also through dramatic price increases for fertilizers and plastic packaging. Truck drivers are less willing to accept long-haul routes when they have the alternative of providing deliveries to consumers within their local area. Mexican blueberry crossings through Arizona, California, and Texas movement expected to increase slightly. Trading was moderate early and slow later. Prices were slightly lower due to softening market caused by increased volumes from Chile. Current production is out of Jalisco with northern Sinaloa expected to begin packing by mid to late March. Movement of Chilean blueberries via boat through the various East Coast and West Coast ports of entry is expected to decrease as the season is past its peak and quality issues are developing. Trading on east coast ...