The supply of blueberries continues to arrive from Chile, the predominant source at the moment. However, the supply is expected to begin to tighten starting in February, as much of the Chilean fruit will be ready toward the end of that month, two to four weeks earlier than usual, according to Joel Whitehead of Wish Farms.

This scenario is related to an earlier start to the season in Chile. Whitehead explains that most varieties maintained this trend throughout the season and that the recent heat waves in the central region have affected the possibility of sustaining shipments of fresh fruit later in the season.

Although some fruit from Peru is still available, going forward the supply will depend primarily on domestic production (USA) and Mexico in early to mid-March. Mexico shipped around 135 million pounds during its 11-month season, and this season is expected to ship between 10% and 20% less.

In the southeastern United States, this week's cold snap could alter projected start dates. Whitehead notes that Florida is two to three weeks ahead of last year, bringing it closer to a more traditional schedule. In that context, a significant volume of shipments from Florida is expected toward the end of March or the beginning of April.

© Wish Farms

Demand that accompanies supply

In demand, the blueberry It remains strong. Whitehead points out that, coming out of the Peruvian season, the quality has been very good over the last two months. He adds that, although Peru exported more fruit than projected at the end of its season, demand has been sufficient to absorb it without excessively slowing down the market.

According to Whitehead, this momentum is also sustained because producers in the United States have strengthened their commitment to quality, incorporating new varieties and technologies. In particular, he mentions investments in grading technology, with the goal of ensuring fruit that appeals to consumers not only because of its origin, but also because of the overall eating experience.

© Wish Farms

Signals for prices and March

With these factors combined, prices have remained good and stable throughout the season. The expectation is that they will hold for a few more weeks and then strengthen at the beginning of February. Based on combined projections from the different production areas, Whitehead anticipates that March could be a tight market month for blueberries.