W30: Blueberry Update

In W30 in the blueberry landscape, July is National Blueberry Month in the United States (US), and despite a challenging start, this year's campaign holds high expectations. The National Blueberry Association (NABC) collaborated with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish this recognition in 2003.

In New Jersey, blueberry harvests are progressing well, with over 42 thousand tons projected for this season. Favorable climate conditions have mitigated disease risks. Michigan anticipates peak volumes from late July to mid-August, with exceptional varieties expected to drive consumer appeal. The Pacific Northwest also foresees peak volumes from mid-July to early August, with strong crops and premium quality attributed to favorable weather conditions. In addition, markets in the US are well-stocked with blueberries from various regions, including Michigan, Washington, and Oregon, and upcoming supplies from Peru as summer ends. Favorable growing conditions have prevailed, despite a drought affecting sizing in Michigan.

The US Highbush Blueberry Council anticipates a strong overall crop with good quality. The North American Blueberry Council's 2023 report projected over 700 million pounds (lbs) of highbush blueberries for the US, an increase from 2022. On the other hand, the Canadian blueberry industry holds a significant position in cultivation and value, encompassing wild and cultivated varieties. The harvest period spans from July to September. Despite challenges in the processing market and pollination issues, stakeholders expect improved pricing and opportunities for growth. Factors like bee population declines and fluctuations in production due to weather, pricing impacts, and the pandemic have influenced the industry. Recent expansion, especially in wild blueberries, driven by consumer demand and higher prices, has led to increased acreage in 2021.

The Peruvian blueberry industry confronts a difficult beginning to the 2023/24 season due to El Niño's impacts. Abnormal weather, featuring above-average temperatures, has disrupted blueberry production and postponed the harvest of blueberries and mandarins. Producers in the La Libertad region are notably affected, raising apprehensions of a potential 10% to 15% decline in blueberry volume compared to the previous year. Despite these obstacles, the industry's dedication to providing major markets, including the US, China, and Europe, remains steadfast. Furthermore, the Peruvian blueberry industry faces reduced export volumes in the 2023/24 season due to the impact of El Niño, with 7.12 thousand tons exported since May, a 9% decrease compared to 2022. The elevated temperatures caused by El Niño have disrupted blueberry production, potentially leading to a 10% to 15% volume decrease if affected varieties do not recover. Despite this, efforts are made to maintain a steady supply to key markets, primarily in the US, China, and Europe. The La Libertad region is the largest contributor to exports, while the industry focuses on accessing new markets like Taiwan, India, Malaysia, and Israel. Despite challenges, the industry remains committed to growth and resilience.

The Chilean blueberry industry is facing a significant crisis, leaving producers uncertain. Key factors contributing to this situation include heightened competition from Peru, which has leveraged state-backed irrigation to establish an early fruit production advantage through a natural greenhouse effect, resulting in a delayed start for Chilean exports. Additionally, the industry's limited variety has caused it to lag as superior fruits enter alternative markets. Despite these challenges, the potential for recovery lies in improving competitiveness and cost efficiency. Lastly, in the wholesale market of Lviv, Western Ukraine, blueberry prices increased from USD 2.30/kg to USD 3.24/kg (UAH 85/kg to UAH 120/kg).