The blueberry market is going through a period of change in which Global supply is reorganized and prices are under greater pressure., with very different dynamics between exporting regions and retail sales in Europe, for the sowing blueberry seeds.
In this stage, Peru retains world leadership While Morocco is gaining prominence in the United Kingdom, the industry is also discussing a clear shift: go from volume to value, supported by more efficient logistics and new varieties with better post-harvest.
Peru consolidates its position and accelerates the transition to value
In less than a decade, the Andean country has raised a competitive blueberry industry taking advantage of stable weather, wide harvest windows, and a strategic logistical location. In 2022, around 240.000 tons produced and the sector has even planned campaigns that could come close to the 400.000 tons, with Peru positioned as the main global exporter.
According to sector estimates, the export ranking places Peru above 200.000 tons annual, followed by a block of countries that maintains a close struggle:
- Peru – around 207.000 t
- Chile – about 83.000 t
- Canada – about 82.000 t
- Spain – around 71.000 t
- United States – approximately 58.000 t
- Mexico – around 55.000 t
After a very rapid growth cycle, the internal conversation takes a further step: prioritize quality, flavor, firmness, and post-harvest consistency Beyond planting for the sake of planting. The sector is already working with better genetics, better window coordination, and decisions more aligned with commercial signals.
Logistics is emerging as a value lever: increased use of the port of Pisco and the start of operations in Chancay open up alternatives to Asia and alleviate bottlenecks. At the same time, the availability and cost of labor force professionalize and retain teams, with training and best practices in the field.
Morocco climbs positions in the United Kingdom
The dynamism of North Africa is reflected in Morocco's rise as the UK's leading supplier of blueberriesBetween July and June, Moroccan shipments exceeded 19.000 tons valued at about 144 million, which is a year-on-year jump of 44% and more than double what was recorded two seasons ago.
The Moroccan campaign is about December to June, peaking in April. In several months, the market share exceeded 50% in British retail and reached the 75% in AprilSupply competes primarily with Spain, the Netherlands, and Germany, while the United Kingdom is consolidating its position as a key destination alongside logistics platforms in the EU.
Prices and margins: mixed signals at source and retail
Peruvian agro-exports detect a price adjustment after the boom: the kilo that in the beginning could be around US$ 15 today it borders the US$ 5With internal and logistics costs on the rise, margins are narrowing and authorities are recognizing that the crop is entering a phase of maturity which requires efficiency, differentiation and better planning.
In European distribution, movements are uneven. In the Netherlands, the Plus chain has placed blueberries around 4,49 Euros, while DekaMarkt has cut its reference to about 2,49 Euros. Other chains show stability, and Dirk and Hoogvliet have activated promotions punctual, reflecting lively competition in the middle of the season.
Varietal innovation: longer post-harvest life and a better experience
Genetic improvement advances with materials such as FL19-006, a variety noted for its precocity, large size, crunchy texture and up to eight weeks of post-harvest lifeAfter shining in Florida, it is being validated in Peru with promising results and limited availability of plants for new plantings under specific requirements.
Tasting panels conducted in the United States have underlined its flavor and consistency, key traits to respond to a market seeking real differentiation. The commitment to high-performance commercial genetics aligns with the strategy of put the focus on value more than in gross volume.
Social and environmental impact: employment, territory and sustainability
Beyond the containers, the blueberry has generated formal employment and opportunities In regions outside the capitals, promoting social mobility and investment in local infrastructure. This impact entails a responsibility: take care of the quality of employment as a competitive advantage of the sector.
In the environment, long-term competitiveness rests on efficient water use, smaller input footprint and climate adaptationThe industry that anticipates and protects its environment consolidates its future; the one that does not adapt, loses relevance.
With a tighter global board, the blueberry faces a stage of smart growthPeru maintains its lead by investing in quality, logistics, and people; Morocco is making a strong entrance in the United Kingdom; and prices require careful consideration in every decision, from genetics to the supermarket shelf.
