Indian fruit importer IG International says that sales of blueberries - a relatively unknown fruit in the country - are on the upswing in urban areas.

The leading importer is importing around 130 metric tons (MT) of the fruit, to sell in major cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Ahmedabad.

It attributed rising consumption levels largely to the superfruit's numerous health benefits.

The company is importing the varieties Semana, Jewel, Star, Ventura, Emerald, Legacy, Duke, and Brightwell, selling them at 2000 rupees (US$28) per kilogram.

"Blueberries are incredibly healthy and help boost one’s heart and brain functions, among numerous other nutritious benefits. Moreover, they are colourful and sweet along with being healthy, thereby earning a place in the hearts of our consumers," said Tarun Arora, director of IG International,

"Considering the increase in sales of this batch of import, we at IG International are certain that this fruit’s healthy and sweet nature will continue to appeal to taste buds of our urban Indian audience."

In 2017 IG announced a joint venture with Mountain Blue to produce blueberries in India under a new company called BerryLife.

IG International imports 32 global varieties of fruits to India from across 22 countries. The company also has global offices in Belgium, the Czech Republic, Hong Kong, China, and the U.S.