OPINIO
Trade4go
Feb 12th, 2025
Original content
The global blueberry market is witnessing dynamic growth, with Peru, Chile, and China emerging as key players. Trade data from the 2024/25 season highlights the competitive positioning of these countries in the global blueberry industry.
Peru has solidified its position as the world’s largest exporter of blueberries, with exports projected to reach 323,928 metric tons (mt) for the 2024/25 season, according to Tridge On-the-Ground Updates, a 4.1% increase from initial forecasts. As of W3 of the campaign, Peru had already exported 294,000 mt, marking a 48% year-on-year (YoY) growth. The United States (US) remains the primary destination, absorbing 54% of exports, followed by Europe (25%) and China (13%). Notably, organic blueberries have seen a 60% increase in exports share, reflecting a growing global demand for eco-friendly and healthy products.
Peru’s success is attributed to its strategic varietal diversification and innovation in genetic programs. Blueberry varieties like Sekoya Pop, Ventura, and Biloxi dominate exports in the 2024/25 season, with shares of 19%,15%, and 14%, respectively . Tridge covered impacts of varietal development in this Opinion: Varietal Development Technology Will Drive the Blueberry Global Market.
The opening of the Chancay Port has further enhanced Peru’s logistical efficiency, reducing shipping times to China by ten days and cutting costs by 20%. This infrastructure development has bolstered Peru’s ability to meet rising demand in China, its second-largest market, and expand into new regions like India.
Figure 1. Countries Competing with Peru for Exports of Fresh Blueberries
Source: Tridge Market Brief
Chile, another major exporter, shipped 55,946 mt of blueberries by W2, according to the Chilean Blueberry Committee, marking a 7% YoY increase from the previous 2023/24 season. Europe remains its largest market, accounting for 41% of exports, followed by the US with 35%. Chile’s focus on recommended and new varieties, such as Legacy and Duke, has strengthened its competitiveness. Organic blueberries represent 12% of total exports, highlighting Chile’s commitment to sustainability and premium markets.
Despite steady growth, Chile faces challenges in maintaining its market share amid rising competition from Peru and China. However, its established presence in Europe and South Korea provides a stable foundation for continued growth.
China has rapidly expanded its blueberry production, becoming the world’s largest producer in 2022 with 525,000 mt, based on Produce Report insights. While domestic consumption dominates, exports have surged, reaching 2,314 mt in the first eight months of 2024, a significant increase from previous years. Key markets include Hong Kong, Singapore, and Malaysia, supported by initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative and the China–Laos Railway.
China’s export growth is supported by its rising domestic demand, driven by increasing per capita consumption. However, the country faces challenges in developing proprietary blueberry varieties, which limits its competitiveness in premium markets. Investments in breeding programs and quality improvements are critical for China to strengthen its position globally.
Figure 2. China Export Markets of Fresh Blueberries
Source: Tridge Market Brief
The global blueberry market is shaped by Peru’s export dominance, Chile’s steady growth in Europe, and China’s dual role as a major producer and emerging exporter. While Peru leads innovation and logistics, Chile leverages its established markets, and China capitalizes on regional trade initiatives. Together, these countries are shaping the future of the blueberry industry, driven by rising global demand and evolving consumer preferences.
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