Blueberry production begins in November and concludes in March of the following year, coinciding with the cold winter months, which are characterized by the necessary abundance of cold hours. The cultivation of blueberries, known for its resilience and greater post-harvest viability compared to other berries such as raspberries and blackberries, has become a sought-after option for exporters. Increased competition, especially from Peru, has engendered intensified market dynamics, limiting profits and preventing the expansion of cultivated areas during the last three marketing campaigns. Additional challenges, including high transportation costs, compliance with U.S. regulations requiring methyl bromide fumigation, and rising labor costs stemming from the fallout of the pandemic, have further compressed profit margins.

The Chilean Blueberry Committee, in collaboration with iQonsulting, revised its export estimate for the 2023-2024 season. The forecast now anticipates exports of 76.500 tonnes of fresh blueberries, reflecting a 7% decrease from the initial estimate in October and a 13% reduction from the previous marketing year. “This new forecast takes into account the effect of rain during the first two weeks of November, as well as other associated weather events such as frost and hail. We are seeing a pattern similar to the average of recent seasons, which will generate an initial peak of more than 5 thousand tons in week 49. Meanwhile, the period of highest volumes, with up to 8 thousand tons per week, will occur between weeks 51 -2023 and 03-2024”, says Andrés Armstrong, executive director of the Chilean Blueberry Committee

Source: USDA Market News via Agronometry.
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Armstrong reported that, to date, fresh blueberry exports are 18% higher than last season, and “the inclusion of new varieties and a sharp decline in non-recommended varieties are dominating exports.” He also highlighted that, regarding the types of shipments, “air shipments have led exports to date with 1.422 tons and a growth of 170% compared to the same period last season. “Sea shipments are starting to increase, reaching 495 tonnes, 56% less than what was shipped during the same period last season,” he says.

Source: USDA Market News via Agronometry.
(Agronometrics users can view this chart with live updates here)

While there is evidence of varietal changes within the sector, Armstrong emphasizes that these changes have yet to translate into export volumes. The industry is actively working on transitioning to more profitable cultivars, anticipating a temporary reduction in volume while improving its overall export base. So far this year, shipments to the US are increasing rapidly, with 276 tonnes exported during week 45. In total, 892 tonnes of fresh blueberries have been shipped to the US this season, compared to just 357 at the same time last year.

Armstrong explained that among the main varieties exported to date are Ventura, the new CB1219, Emerald, Rocío and Suzie Blue. Highlighting a key initiative for the current season, Armstrong announced the relaunch of the Blueberry Express service to the US. This service aims to accelerate the fruit's presence on the market in two weeks or less. With preparations complete, the committee anticipates service will begin in week 48 or 49, with a specific focus on reaching the East Coast.

The Chilean blueberry industry is facing a number of challenges as it strategically positions itself to capitalize on emerging opportunities. Amid climate-related adversities and global market fluctuations, the sector's resilience, commitment to varietal change and innovative marketing strategies underline its fundamental role in the international blueberry market.

Source: USDA Market News via Agronometry.
(Agronometrics users can view this chart with live updates here)

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All US domestic agricultural commodity prices represent the spot market at the point of shipping (i.e. climate-controlled packing house/warehouse, etc.). For imported fruit, price data represents the spot market at the port of entry.

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