Red fruits, also known as berries, represent a group of fruits with common characteristics that make them especially valuable from both an agronomic and nutritional perspective. In Andalusia, these fruits are a star export product, as well as an example of how agriculture can evolve toward more sustainable, technologically advanced, and competitive models.

In this way, Andalusia continues to strengthen its role as a European leader in the agri-food sector, and particularly in the export of berries. According to recent data, in 2024 the autonomous community will reach €1.207 billion in exports of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries to European Union countries, with a sales volume exceeding 327.700 tons. This achievement has a clear protagonist: the province of Huelva.

“Europe’s pantry” in fresh fruit

During a visit to the facilities of the Freshuelva Producers and Exporters Association, the Minister of Agriculture, Ramon Fernandez-Pacheco, highlighted Andalusia's role as a "European pantry" for fresh fruits and vegetables. "Our region not only leads the export of strawberries and blueberries, but is also the second largest supplier of raspberries in the EU," he noted.

The key to this success lies in the high quality of the product, crop diversification, and commitment to sustainability. More than 90% of the sector is certified with the seal. GLOBAL GAP Spring, which guarantees good agricultural practices and water sustainability. Furthermore, integrated production—which seeks to balance the use of natural resources and environmentally friendly techniques—is prevalent, especially in blueberry (98%) and strawberry (77,6%) crops.

Crop distribution by species
In terms of crop distribution by species, strawberries remain the sector's dominant crop, accounting for 51% of the cultivated area. They are followed by blueberries at 36%, raspberries at 12%, and, to a lesser extent, blackberries and other fruits at just 1%. Each of these possesses unique qualities that make them attractive for fresh consumption and industrial processing. Strawberries, for example, are the most widely cultivated variety in Huelva's fields, not only due to their high demand in European markets but also due to their adaptability to the climate and integrated production techniques. Blueberries, for their part, have experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by their nutritional value and antioxidant properties, making them a particularly sought-after product in countries such as Germany and the Netherlands. Raspberry, although less present in area, stands out for its high added value, while blackberries remain a more minor crop, but with growing potential.

For his part, the president of Freshuelva, Francisco José Gómez, He took advantage of the institutional visit to call for greater investment in water infrastructure, highlighting the urgent need to complete the Alcolea dam and move forward with the water transfer to Condado, essential measures to ensure the sustainability of the sector.

In terms of production, Andalusia has successfully combined agricultural tradition with technological innovation to make berries one of the pillars of its agricultural economy. Thanks to integrated production systems and international quality certifications, such as the Andalusian Seal of Quality, the Andalusian Agricultural Product (SAQ) has been awarded the SAQ seal of approval. GLOBAL GAP, The cultivation of Andalusian berries guarantees not only product excellence, but also a firm commitment to the environment, efficient water use, and consumer health.