In W35 in the blueberry landscape, Washington state has emerged as the world's leading producer of blueberries, surpassing apples and cherries. Washington State has an annual output of nearly 90 thousand tons of blueberries. The western part of Washington contributes approximately 55% of the state's blueberry crop, while the eastern region accounts for the remaining 45%. Notably, the production of highbush blueberries, known for their height and higher yields, has had a significant economic impact, generating USD 464.4 million.
The unusual warmth in Peru caused by the El Niño weather phenomenon is forecasted to result in a smaller blueberry harvest for the 2023/24 season, challenging initial production expectations. The Peruvian Blueberry Producers and Exporters Association (Proarándanos) suggests that record-breaking figures may not be attainable this season. The main variety, Ventura, has been notably affected by the higher temperatures, with average temperatures surpassing the norm by 4 to 5°C. Despite the challenges, Peru maintains a significant supply due to diverse growing regions and resilient blueberry varieties, even though overall volume is anticipated to decline.
Furthermore, during the 2023/24 blueberry export season, Peru has experienced a notable decline in blueberry shipments to China. From May-23 to the first week of Aug-23, Peru exported 9.81 thousand tons of blueberries to China, marking a 28% decrease from the same period in the previous season when 13.57 thousand tons were shipped. In the first week of August, global exports of Peruvian blueberries saw a sharp decline of 47% compared to the same week in the previous year, with 2.16 thousand tons shipped to 21 destinations. The United States (US), China, and the Netherlands were the top three receiving countries, with Peru sending 784 tons (56% decrease), 646 tons (61% decrease), and 424 tons (23% increase) of blueberries to these respective markets during that week.
Chile has experienced heavy rainfall, with some regions receiving over 400 millimeters (mm) of rain in just two days, causing estimated damages of USD 396.26 million (EUR 370 million). The Growers and the National Federation of Fruit Growers' Guilds (Fedefruta) anticipate even higher losses as some affected areas remain inaccessible. The adverse weather marks the second severe rain event in two months and has caused significant damage to orchards, leading to potential harvest losses. The initial loss estimate primarily pertains to blueberries, European hazelnuts, and cherry trees, with ongoing damage assessment as water levels recede.
Lastly, Morocco has significantly expanded its export of fresh blueberries, notably to the UAE (United Arab Emirates), becoming the top supplier in the 2022/23 season, surpassing South Africa. Moroccan blueberry exports to the UAE increased over the past few seasons, with a record 982 tons valued at USD 6.3 million shipped in the latest season. While blueberries from Morocco, South Africa, and other countries entered the UAE markets, Morocco's share of imports rose from 2.6% to 36%. Morocco and South Africa, though top suppliers, do not directly compete, as their export seasons complement each other, ensuring year-round supply. This development propelled Morocco to 7th place globally in berry exports and 4th place in cultivated blueberry exports, with USD 315 million in earnings for the 2022/23 season.
