W51: Weekly Berry Update

Blueberry

Argentina

Weekly Argentinian Blueberry Export to UK Stagnates (Dec 22)

In Argentina, the total weekly import figure of blueberries stands at 131 tons in W50. Total shipments for W50 2022 were 4,263 tons. With no shipments to the UK in W50, leaving the cumulative figure at 38 tons. The import of blueberries to the European continent amounted to 2,276 tons, about 46% less than in 2021, with 3,517 tons. Italy sees a decline in demand for raspberries and blueberries in W50. Blueberries on the domestic market are mainly imported from Spain, Portugal, and Mexico, with prices ranging from USD 2.12-3.71/175g box.

Italy

W50 Sees a Decline in Demand for Raspberries and Blueberries in Italy (Dec 19)

Despite an overall increased consumption trend for berries in 2022 compared to 2021, Italy sees a decline in demand for raspberries and blueberries in W50. Blueberries on the domestic market are mainly imported from Spain, Portugal, and Mexico, with prices ranging from USD 2.12-3.71/175g box. In terms of raspberries, the Italian variety costs an average of USD 12.73 per kg, or USD 1.75/125g box. Imported raspberries from Morocco, Spain, and Portugal are also available in the domestic market at an average price of USD 1.78/125g box. Additionally, in the coming two weeks, less production is expected for raspberries from the Italian province of Basilicata, while prices for those of Spanish and Moroccan origins are expected to increase by 8%.

United States

Breeding Efforts in Berry Crops Growing by Leaps and Bounds in the United States (Dec 20)

The vaccinium pangenome is arriving in the United States. The pangenome will be an essential tool to accelerate and optimize the breeding efforts of blueberries for key traits. Traits that influence fruit quality are of primary focus.

Strawberry

Egypt

Egyptian Strawberry Demand Decreased in W51 Due to Oversupply and Economic Problems From the Russian-Ukraine War (Dec 20)

As Europeans are struggling with economic problems due to the Russian-Ukraine war, demand for Egyptian strawberries has seen a decrease in W51. Buyers are canceling orders as they still can't move the supply of goods that arrived in W49 and W50. There was also an oversupply in the early days of W48 from Egyptian farmers hoping that the demand in the EU markets would be as high as in previous years. This fall in demand has caused panic among producers and farmers as they need to find quick alternatives to their perishable products.