Growers from the Argentinean Blueberry Committee (ABC) have registered a 20% year-on-year rise in sea-freight shipments for the season to date, while figures are also up 40% on the same period in 2015. 

"These numbers, without any precedent, show the effort we have been doing in logistics to be more competitive before a changeable market with decreasing prices," said ABC president Federico Bayá, emphasizing the shift had helped reduce costs. 

The highest peak in sea shipments was seen in week 43 (Oct. 23-29) with volume reaching almost 30% of the total (710 metric tons (MT) out of 2,500MT).

In October, 1,400MT of blueberries were shipped, representing more than three times the 400MT exported during the same month last year.

"If we compare this data with 2015, the difference is huge since during that year only 45MT were shipped by sea," Bayá said.

Additionally, ABC highlights sea-freight gained greater importance with respect to Argentina's mainstay air-frieght deal in the earlier part of the season. Exports by plane went from 87% of the total down to 80% in the 2017-18 season forecast.

The committee emphasized sea-freight shipments to the U.S. and Canada were up 57%, while to the U.K. and continental Europe volumes were up 20%.

“The advantage of sea shipments is that we can plan and forecast in advance, ensuring the fruit arrives on time and in great quality as in air shipments”, added Bayá.

Adding to momentum from the "Taste the Difference" campaign and local promotion "Mejor con Arándanos", ABC growers will be participating in two international food events in Buenos Aires this week LAC Flavors and B2B expo AlimentAR.

ABC comprises growers of more than 80% of the country's blueberry exports, including regional chambers APAMA, CAPAB and APRATUC.

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