A Chilean Blueberry Committee report has shown exports were 4.9% higher than previously forecast in week 7 (Feb.14 to 21) at 3,154 metric tons (MT).

The report showed blueberry exports have reached 94% of export targets, but even if week-by-week values are recorded as expected, the industry would exceed season targets by 5.5%.

Blueberry exports are expected to continue their decline until the final week of the season, finishing Apr. 3.

Cumulative exports for the industry to week 7 were 60,174MT, with harvests in the VI (Maule) region reaching 90% for the Brightwell variety and between 75% and 80% for the Tifblue variety.

The report said Brigitta variety blueberries were almost harvested at 95% in the VIII (Bio Bio) region, along with Brightwell at 90% and Tifblue at 75%.

“In both regions the quality of the fruit is good but with condition problems such as dehydration and splitting,” the report said.

The Chilean Blueberry Committee used data from market researcher iQonsulting.

Source: Chilean Blueberry Committee/ edited by www.freshfruitportal.com