W49 Blueberry Update: Global Blueberry Market Evolves Amid Export Challenges, Emerging Leaders, Resilient Harvests, and Innovation

Peru's Fresh Blueberry Market Challenges and Recovery Amidst Export Trends, Price Surges, and Global Impact

Peru's fresh blueberry market faces challenges as weekly exports struggle to surpass 15 thousand metric tons (mt), notably lower than the previous year's 20 thousand mt, marking a discouraging trend expected to persist. Despite this, positive growth is attributed to the atypical season, with major shipments reaching the United States (59%), the Netherlands (24%), and the United Kingdom (7%). Concurrently, the blueberry sector shows signs of recovery as exports improve, narrowing the negative gap by 38%, with Oct-23 shipments totaling 45.32 thousand mt valued at USD 386 million. Climatic challenges impact volume, but scarcity drives prices higher, notably in the US market. Experts anticipate sustained high blueberry prices until season end, affecting global suppliers, while concerns linger about Peru's potential weak 2024 harvest, possibly extending the high-price period.

Mexico Emerges as Eighth Global Blueberry Exporter with Strong Sales Growth and US Dominance

Mexico has risen to become the world's eighth-largest exporter of fresh blueberries, reporting sales totaling USD 490 million and a robust annual growth rate of 15.5% over the last four years, as highlighted by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. The US remains the primary destination for Mexican blueberry exports, accounting for 94.9% of sales and exhibiting an average annual growth rate of 16.1%. The country's specialization in blueberry production is attributed to diverse climates and favorable conditions, fostering substantial development and increased production across various regions.

Argentine Blueberry Exports Thrive Despite Challenges, Filling Global Demand Amid Southern Hemisphere Shortages

Argentine blueberry exports reached their highest point during W42 and W43, showcasing resilience in the face of a supply shortage in the Southern Hemisphere. W45 showed renewed shipments of 360 mt to the US. Despite climatic challenges, Argentina's blueberry season remains satisfactory, fueled by high demand due to shortages in the southern hemisphere. The president of the Argentine blueberry committee notes favorable prices resulting from limited fruit availability. The harvest, characterized by cool mornings and afternoon heat, is expected to conclude by W51 and W52. Overall, Argentina's response, delivering 90% of shipments by air, reflects a positive season.

Extending Sicilian Blueberry Season into Autumn, Opening New Markets and Opportunities

Researchers at the University of Florida may change the game for Sicilian blueberries, traditionally absent in autumn. Typically, Sicily only yields blueberries from February to May, forcing reliance on imports in autumn. The study identified genes in Southern Highbush Blueberries that can potentially extend the harvest season. If successful, this discovery could benefit consumers and manufacturers by extending the availability of locally grown blueberries in Sicily, challenging the norm and creating opportunities for the region. The study evaluated 536 varieties on Florida farms, aiming to alter the harvest period influenced by the plant's response to day length.

USDA-Funded Initiative Targets Enhanced Blueberry Quality Through Advanced Disease Management Strategies

supported by a USD 3.95 million grant from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Michigan State University leads the BLUE-DYNAMO project, concentrating on strategies to manage blueberry fruit rot. The project aims to enhance blueberry quality and minimize pre-, during, and post-harvest losses. Part of the USDA Specialty Crop Research Initiative, BLUE-DYNAMO strives to develop an interactive platform for advanced horticultural and disease management strategies. This initiative underscores the significance of preserving blueberries, often referred to as "little blue dynamos," renowned for their health benefits. The project signals a commitment to elevating blueberry cultivation practices and ensuring a robust market presence.

Chile's Analysis Reveals Growth to 250 Thousand Hectares, Demanding Increased Market Presence

The global blueberry industry has experienced a significant transformation, with approximately 250 thousand hectares (ha) worldwide, a stark increase from 75 thousand ha a decade ago. Chile's technical manager, Julia Pinto, emphasizes the current global volume of 1.86 million metric tons (mmt), driving the need for substantial consumption and market presence. While 1.31 mmt cater to the fresh market, 549 thousand mt serve the processed market. Pinto underscores Chile's average production of 10 tons/ha, urging a minimum of 18 mt for producer viability. In the 2023/24 seasons, Chile yielded 166 million kilograms (kg), while Peru achieved nearly 300 million kg in 2022, showcasing Peru's consistent growth since 2019.

Ukraine's Surging Exports Propel Nation Among Top Global Players, Poland Benefit from Blueberries and Raspberries

Despite war challenges, Ukraine emerges as a berry export powerhouse, with 25% annual growth, particularly in frozen raspberries. Blueberry production surges, but processing remains a challenge, limiting added value. Poland leverages Ukrainian berries, maintaining their position in the global market. Ukraine's affordable raspberries with premium quality hold the potential for higher prices with improved packaging and marketing strategies.