The 16th Aneberries International Congress, held on July 29 and 30 at Expo Guadalajara, brought together producers, exporters, specialists, authorities, and companies linked to the berry industry. The event promoted innovation, sustainability, and the exchange of knowledge regarding the present and future of the sector.

During the inauguration, Miguel Ángel Curiel Mendoza, president of the National Association of Berry Exporters (Aneberries), pointed out that the industry faces economic, commercial and productive challenges.

“In the global context, we have macroeconomic challenges, we have challenges in the trade relationship with the United States that are normal and that have occurred at the same time. In addition, we have the traditional pressures for agriculture, such as the climate and the labor force,” he commented.

Curiel highlighted that Mexican berry exports exceed US$4.000 billion, that the sector has more than 50.000 hectares in production, and that it brings together more than 50.000 producers.

“The most important aspect is that this industry generates development in rural communities, with more than 300.000 field workers who are the foundation of this industry's growth,” he emphasized.

Jalisco highlights the economic contribution of berries

Eduardo Ron Ramos, Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development of Jalisco, highlighted the importance of this industry as an economic engine for the state and for Mexico, due to its position among the country's main agri-food export products.

At the end of May, Jalisco recorded a production of 2.552 tons of blueberries, 14.204 tons of strawberries, 10.842 tons of blackberries and 62.390 tons of raspberries.

As part of its participation in the congress, the Jalisco Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, in coordination with the Agency for Agrifood Health, Safety and Quality (ASICA), set up a pavilion to promote health, safety and best agrifood practices.

The space allowed producers to access tools and solutions aimed at meeting the demands of national and international markets.

Participation of companies and specialists

The organization projected an attendance of over 3.000 people for this edition, the participation of 250 exhibiting companies, and the presence of national and international specialists, who would share trends, innovation, and knowledge about one of Mexico's most important agri-food industries.

The opening ceremony was attended by authorities and representatives from the agri-food and business sectors, who discussed the industry's contribution to employment, innovation and regional development.

Miguel Ángel Mancilla Ramírez, Director General of Agricultural Production at the Ministry of Agriculture of the Federal Government, highlighted Aneberries' model for bringing producers closer to marketing channels.

“We want to build bridges with Aneberries because it is a true model of rural development. We seek to bring producers closer to marketing channels; this is a significant challenge for the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Aneberries model is a successful one that is achieving this. However, we have significant delays in other supply chains,” he stated.

Representatives from various agencies and organizations also participated in the inauguration, including Jorge Esteves Recolons, president of the National Agricultural Council (CNA).

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