New varieties, key players and changing market conditions in the global blueberry industry
Native to North America, blueberries have been around for over 13,000 years. Their rise to popularity has given place to a dynamic market, with new varieties being developed yearly.
Take a look at some of our most-read blueberry stories.
Oversupply cuts Florida blueberry season short
The Florida blueberry industry recently wrapped its 2023-24 season, with the Sunshine State posting outstanding quality and volumes. However, a fruit oversupply forced growers to finalize the campaign slightly earlier than anticipated.
Oppy drops two new blueberry varieties: Pink Cosmo and Hunkaberry
Produce giant Oppy announced the launch of two new proprietary jumbo and pink blueberry varieties: Pink Cosmo and Hunkaberry. The recent launch is the result of Oppy’s collaboration with family-owned G&M Farms.
Chile wraps up its 2023-24 blueberry season
In a promising conclusion to the 2023-2024 season, Chilean blueberry exports are poised to surpass initial estimates, signaling a positive trajectory for the industry. The Chilean Blueberry Fruit Committee reports that shipments are projected to exceed 86,000 tons, showcasing an increase from the Committee's earlier projection of 82,300 tons, albeit with a slight decrease compared to the previous season's figures.
South African blueberry exporters expected to reach their goal
North South Africa's blueberry season has started and industry growers anticipate a growth in exports of 10%.
Blueberry shipments are expected to be underway within four weeks but major exports will only happen after the harvest of the Western Cape ramps in the second half of the year.
The Moroccan blueberry industry: Emergence to global dominance
The Moroccan blueberry industry has steadily ascended to international prominence, marking a journey of strategic cultivation and sustainable growth. Since the inception of blueberry plantations in 2005, the nation has witnessed a remarkable surge, with blueberry acreage expanding more than 15-fold over the past 15 years.
Positioned at the crossroads of a privileged location and favorable environmental conditions, Morocco has emerged as a key player in the global blueberry market.
A different season for the Southern blueberry industry
Agronomist Betina Ernst addresses the weather phenomena that altered production cycles and created different market conditions for the crop in 2023-24.
China to source blueberries from Serbia
Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Europe can be described as more than fruitful. In addition to the agreement to import cherries from Hungary, the supply of blueberries from Serbia has now been added.
Washington blueberries look to Asia, as growers await highest volumes in decade
The United States produced 711.2 million pounds of blueberries in 2023, making it the global leader in production. The North American Blueberry Council’s annual production report predicts a potential increase in volume for 2024.