W10 Blueberry Update: Increased Blueberry Exports in Georgia, Reduced Tariffs on Chilean Blueberries in India, and Expectations of Decreased Blueberry Production in Peru

Published 2024년 3월 13일

In W10 in the blueberry landscape, Georgia's blueberry exports experienced a remarkable 500% increase in 2023, reaching a total value of USD 53.9 million, as reported by the agency's interim assessments released on March 4, 2024. Meanwhile, India reduced tariffs on Chilean blueberries to boost exports. Due to warming weather, Peru's blueberry production is expected to decrease by 37% YoY, causing a 28% increase in export prices. Lastly, China's fast-growing blueberry industry faces concerns about unauthorized growth, rising labor costs, and improving quality.

Georgia’s Blueberry Exports Surged in 2023

Georgia exported blueberries to approximately 50 companies from 2020 to 2023, with 90% of these exports going to Russia. The volume of exported blueberries surged by 500% in 2023, totaling 3.41 thousand tons. The total value of exported blueberries also increased significantly, reaching USD 53.9 million in 2023. The combined share of the five major companies in the export market fluctuated between 43% and 65%.

India's Tariff Reduction on Chilean Blueberries to Boost Exports

The Indian Ministry of Finance has reduced tariffs on Chilean blueberries from 30% to 10%, effective February 20, 2024. Meanwhile, canned or prepared cranberries will now have a standard tariff rate of 5%, while similarly packaged blueberries will be subject to a 10% tariff. This tariff reduction is expected to increase Chilean blueberry exports to India, a market predicted to become the world's third-largest economy by 2030. Despite existing logistical challenges, the move expects to enable a broader diversification of Chilean blueberry export destinations.

Blueberry Production Forecasted to Decrease by 37% in 2023/24 Season

The 2023 Peruvian Blueberry Annual Report predicts a notable decline in blueberry exports due to warming weather conditions, especially in northern Peru. Blueberry production and export volumes for the 2023/24 season are anticipated to decrease by 37% and 43% year-over-year (YoY), respectively, resulting in a 28% YoY increase in export prices. The average export price nearly doubled from May-23 to Nov-23, with primary export destinations including the United States (US), the Netherlands, and mainland China. High prices will likely continue due to limited supply.

Blueberry Producers Discuss Patented Varieties and Export Prospects in China

A conference in Honghe City, Yunnan Province, China, discussed the fast-growing blueberry industry in the region. The region has over 5 thousand hectares (ha) of blueberry farms and produces 105 thousand tons of blueberries each year. However, there are concerns about the industry's future, including the unauthorized growth of patented blueberry varieties, rising labor costs, and how to improve the quality of blueberries. The conference also discussed selling blueberries to other countries, focusing on the southern hemisphere as a potential market.