W25: Blueberry Update

In W25 in the blueberry landscape, it was reported that in the United States, the 2023 Virginia blueberry crop was delayed but showed a fair abundance of fruit, according to a blueberry farmer in Craig County. The ripening process was delayed by cold weather in June, and the spring frosts have affected yields. According to the Association of Blueberry Producers and Exporters of Peru (Proarándanos), Peru is expected to experience a 5% increase in blueberry exports compared to the previous season, surpassing 286 thousand tons. Projections for the 2023/2024 season indicate a further rise to over 338 thousand tons. However, the president of Proarándanos expressed caution due to unpredictable weather conditions and the potential impact of the El Niño phenomenon, especially in the northern regions of La Libertad and Lambayeque. Peru has approximately 18 thousand hectares dedicated to blueberry cultivation. The president emphasized the importance of maintaining the quality of Peruvian blueberries as they expand their trading window. Premium varieties are preferred in the market, leading to price differences. While Ventura and Biloxi are the main cultivated varieties, new varieties such as Rocío, Eureka, Sekoya, and others are gaining popularity and becoming more readily available. In addition, the 2023/24 blueberry campaign in Peru has commenced with promising prospects for a new record-breaking season. In the first week of the official campaign, Peru achieved shipments of 597 tons, marking a significant 61% increase compared to the previous season and setting a positive tone for the current season. The United States emerged as the primary destination for blueberry exports, accounting for 49% of the total share (296 tons), twelve times higher than the previous year. The Netherlands secured the second position with an 18% share (108 tons), representing a 106% increase, while the United Kingdom claimed 13% (80 tons), marking a 3% growth from 2022. Shipments were predominantly via sea transportation (80%), with the remaining 20% by air.

On the other hand, in early June, frosts had a detrimental impact on Polish blueberry plantations, resulting in substantial losses for some farms. Certain varieties, particularly Bluecrop and Chandler, were affected by the effects of winter on the blueberry buds. However, the frosts in early June caused significant damage, leading to losses of up to 60% in certain areas. Lastly, the XXVIII International Blueberry Seminar will be held in Agadir, Morocco, on September 13 and 14, 2023. The seminar brings together international companies involved in various aspects of blueberry cultivation, such as inputs, services, technology, machinery, and new genetic varieties. Morocco's blueberry industry is experiencing significant growth, with a planted area exceeding 4 thousand hectares and an annual expansion of 200 to 400 hectares. This growth reflects the implementation of new and modern production projects in Morocco.