© Promperu

The Chilean Blueberry Committee forecasts stable export volumes in 2020-21 despite the disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. The CBC is working to diversify its export markets, given the current overdependence on the US and China. Although shipments fell to Chile’s main market, the US (-13%), exports to Asia and Europe were up 20% and 8% respectively. 

© Fruit-Inform Agency

On September 17, Fruit-Inform Agency (Ukraine) will hold an international Zoom webinar on the highbush blueberry market in Eastern Europe. The event will be in English and combine blueberry production and trade experience from both Western and Eastern Europe.

Despite the escalating tensions between the two countries, China has announced it will allow imports of blueberries from the United States as of Thursday 14th May, according to notices on the country’s customs website. The move is part of an agreement signed in January to increase imports of US agricultural products by an additional $32 billion over two years as part of a Phase 1 deal to ease the trade war between the economic superpowers. The fruit must meet the relevant requirements.

© Alexandra Sautois, Eurofresh Distribution

Chile has recorded significant growth in its shipments of blueberries to the Far East, this season, with volumes up 31% from the previous campaign, according to data published by Asoex. The Asian market now accounts for 18% of the total export volume. North America has received 48% of the volumes of Chilean blueberries so far this season, 7% down on last season’s volumes. Europe has received 33% of shipments, with a growth of 3%.

© Bionest

Peru’s blueberry industry has come a long way in a very short time. It is now the world’s leading supplier, with exports exceeding US$470 million (66,000 tons), up from just $465,000 in 2012. The leading Peruvian exporter is Camposol SA, with US$132.6 million (28% share).