OPINIO
Trade4go
Mar 24th, 2025
Original content
Mexico is the sixth-largest blueberry producer globally, with the 2025 calendar year (CY) production estimated at 73,500 metric tons (mt), a 9% decrease from CY 2024 due to a shorter harvest period. Many Mexican producers have delayed the harvest from Oct-24 to Feb-25, to counter competition from Peru and Chile, which offer lower-cost berries. Aiming to offset lower production with higher revenues, this strategy shortens the harvest period, reducing labor costs and allowing producers to export during the February-May window when South American supply declines.
Table 1. Mexico’s Blueberry Production from 2019 to 2025
Mexico's blueberry production benefits from favorable growing conditions, accessible labor, and proximity to the United States (US) market. The planted area is expected to decrease slightly to 6,008 hectares (ha) in 2025 as producers shift to higher-yielding proprietary varieties. Jalisco and Sinaloa will remain the leading producing states, with Sinaloa projected to increase production in 2025 due to favorable conditions, including adequate water access.
Graph 1. Mexico’s Blueberry Production Share by State
Mexico's blueberry producers are increasingly embracing innovative technologies and drought-resistant varieties to mitigate the effects of water scarcity. These advancements are crucial for sustaining production in regions facing water shortages while maintaining fruit quality.
One significant innovation is the adoption of substrate planting, a method in which blueberries are grown in containers filled with a specialized growing medium rather than directly in the soil. This approach offers several advantages, improving water management by reducing evaporation, allowing for better control over nutrient delivery, and increasing plant density, leading to higher yields. Additionally, substrate planting minimizes the risks of soil-borne diseases, which can be detrimental to blueberry crops.
In addition to substrate planting, many growers are investing in efficient irrigation systems. These include drip irrigation and precision watering technologies, which help optimize water use by delivering moisture directly to the plant roots, minimizing waste, and ensuring consistent hydration. This technology is especially valuable in arid regions like Sinaloa, Baja California, and parts of Jalisco, where water resources are scarce. The use of smart irrigation systems further enhances efficiency, as sensors and data analytics can adjust watering schedules based on soil moisture levels, weather conditions, and plant needs.
Another key development in Mexico's blueberry industry is the shift toward drought-tolerant varieties such as Southern Highbush and Sharpblue. These varieties are bred to be more resilient to warmer climates and can better tolerate water stress, making them suitable for regions with irregular or seasonal rainfall. Drought-tolerant blueberry varieties typically have deep root systems, which help them access water from deeper soil layers, reducing their reliance on frequent irrigation. Additionally, these varieties may have enhanced water retention abilities, enabling the plants to withstand drier conditions for extended periods. By incorporating these varieties, producers can improve water management, which is particularly important in regions where rainfall is inconsistent.
Hand-picking remains a critical part of quality control in the Mexican blueberry industry, ensuring that only the ripest and most visually appealing blueberries are harvested. On average, Mexican blueberry growers yield between 19 and 27 mt/ha, with bushes reaching optimal production after three years and continuing to produce for up to 20 years. These efforts are helping Mexico’s blueberry industry remain competitive in the global market, particularly as producers look to expand export opportunities and improve sustainability.
According to SIAP, Mexico's annual per capita consumption of blueberries increased by 109% year-on-year (YoY), rising from 70 grams (0.15 pounds) in 2023 to 146 g (0.32 lbs) in 2024. While still below the consumption levels seen in the US and other leading blueberry markets, this growth reflects efforts by berry farmers to promote the health benefits of blueberries. In Mexico, blueberries are considered a luxury food, with relatively high domestic prices. They are primarily consumed in jams, jellies, as well as whole and in smoothies.
Mexican blueberry exports are forecast at 70,000 mt in 2025, a decrease from 74,000 mt in 2024 due to lower production. The US remains the dominant destination, accounting for 96% of exports. Mexico is expanding its export markets, exploring opportunities in the European Union (EU) and emerging markets like the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The import forecast for 2025 is 20,000 mt, a 7% YoY increase from 2024, driven by higher domestic demand met by the US, Peru, and Canada during periods of lower domestic production. The US is expected to continue as Mexico’s primary supplier, with Peru increasing its exports to Mexico.
Mexico's blueberry industry faces a challenging outlook for 2025, with reduced production and export volumes due to a shorter harvest period. However, strategic adjustments, including delayed harvesting, adopting advanced agricultural technologies, and market diversification efforts, aim to maintain Mexico's competitiveness. Despite lower output, increased domestic demand and expanding export opportunities in the EU and emerging markets present growth potential. Mexico's continued investments in innovation and quality are expected to support the industry's long-term stability and market position.
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