The Argentinean Blueberry Committee (ABC) has forecast a 5% increase in export volume of the superfruit this year, up from the 16,232 metric tons (MT) shipped in 2014.

The committee said plants were developing normally with expectations for fruit of good sizing and optimal taste, in what looks to be an "auspicious" season ahead for growers.

The group said a pre-season report will be coming out next week regarding crop phenology and weather, with more in-depth estimates by region.

But while the committee is optimistic for volume, the Blueberry Producers' Association of Mesopotamia Argentina (APAMA) has raised concerns about growing populations of fruit flies.

APAMA said there has been an unusual growth rate in the amount of flies this year due to the lack of cold weather and a large quantity of citrus fruits in the region.

The association said this problem would add to challenges posed by expected intense rains that could affect harvests.

"The sector is on alert as the harvest is near and the results of the first trappings indicate a high population density of this insect," said APAMA president Omar Chiarello.

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