Argentina’s blueberry industry increased exports by 42% this season, boosted by large sales increases in the European Union and the U.S.

Photo: Marijn de Vries Hoogerwerff, Flickr

National blueberry trade exports reached 14,923 metric tons (MT) during the 2010-11 season, compared to 10,473 MT in 2009-10.

Exports to the European Union rose from 2,720 MT to 4,720 MT in 10-11, while exports to the U.S. increased from 7,620 MT to 9,830 MT.

But while Argentina’s exports to Asia were small in comparison, levels nearly tripled from 121 MT to 340 MT in 2010-11.

Argentina Blueberry Committee manager Inés Peláez said Asia demonstrated itself as an interesting market for blueberries.

The majority of exports were by air freight at 11,535 MT, while 3,380 MT were shipped.

Peláez said there was not upturn in prices towards the end of the season, with 6-oz trays sold at prices between US$18 and US$20 in week 49.

Source: www.freshfruitportal.com