W41: Blueberry Update

In W41 in the blueberry landscape, Peru has seen a substantial increase in blueberry production and exports in recent years due to new plant genetic varieties, which have led to consistent supplies of high-quality, large-sized, and flavorful fruit that meet consumer demands. In the 2022/23 season, Peru exported 286.22 thousand tons of fresh blueberries worldwide, an increase over previous campaigns. The initial projection for the 2023/24 season was 325.85 thousand tons, indicating a 14% increase compared to the previous year. However, the threat of the El Niño meteorological phenomenon prompted a drastic revision, and the projection was adjusted to 272.93 thousand tons, a 5% decrease due to increased temperatures affecting plant physiology and delaying flowering.

Variability in climate and meteorological effects impacted regions, farms, and varieties differently, with the Ventura variety, the most planted and exported, being among the most affected. As of October 1, the latest projections suggest exports of 260.58 thousand tons for the 2023/24 campaign, reflecting a 9% decrease. However, the actual outcome will depend on weather conditions, especially the evolution of the El Niño phenomenon in the coming weeks. The projection is based on data from 34 associated and non-associated companies, representing the majority of exports in the current campaign.

Chilean fruit exporters participated in the Fruit Attraction 2023 fair in Madrid, Spain, with a record attendance of more than 180 people and 89 companies. The president of the Fruit Exporters Association of Chile (Asoex) discussed their participation in various international fairs and an upcoming image change for fruits from Chile. The president of the Chilean Blueberry Committee discussed the challenges in the blueberry market, including varietal replacement and adapting to new market conditions. The current blueberry season estimate stands at 82 thousand tons, with the potential for adjustments. This estimation takes into account factors such as the influence of the El Niño phenomenon, as well as the critical aspects of quality control, logistics, and varietal management. The destination markets for Chilean blueberries remain focused on the United States (US) and Canada, Europe, and Asia, emphasizing quality over volume in the upcoming campaign.

Furthermore, the Chilean blueberry industry is anticipating a 6% Year-on-Year (YoY) decrease in fresh blueberry exports for the 2023/24 season, with an expected volume of 82 thousand tons. The season's planting area in Chile has decreased by 2% to 18.07 thousand hectares (ha). Growers have replaced old varieties with low yields and shorter shelf lives, planting 607 ha of new blueberry varieties that now exceed 20% of the total planting area. The strategy of the Blueberry Commission and associated companies in Chile focuses on updating varieties, improving production management, and enhancing logistics services to ensure stable fruit quality and competitive prices in the market. El Niño's impact on the Chilean blueberry industry remains uncertain. The effects have been less severe than in Peru, with precipitation and temperature changes monitored closely to provide updates to global customers.

The South African blueberry industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by new varieties and improved production methods that have enhanced yield and product quality. Despite stable acreage, production has steadily increased, reaching over 30 thousand tons in the 2023/24 season, up from 20 thousand tons in 2020. This growth is due to new blueberry varieties that cater to diverse consumer preferences, positioning South Africa as a reliable supplier of high-quality blueberries.

While the industry has faced challenges such as labor strikes and adverse weather conditions, a unique opportunity has arisen due to decreased Peruvian blueberry exports, creating higher demand and attractive pricing for South African blueberries. The industry aims to capitalize on this opportunity and expand its presence in European markets. Adapting to evolving consumer demands, South African blueberry producers have the potential to explore different regions in the country for cultivation, ensuring resilience and global market effectiveness. The industry's prospects look promising, provided it maintains high product quality, export timing, and market competitiveness. South Africa is actively pursuing access to new markets in India and Israel, further supporting industry growth and diversification.