The EastFruit team continues its analysis of global blueberry markets, with a special focus on Chile, the first country to establish itself as a world leader in fresh blueberry exports. Chile held the top spot in blueberry exports for decades before Peru's emergence, maintaining a strong presence in the industry. After years of stagnant or declining exports, the Chilean blueberry sector is stabilizing. In the 2023/24 season, exports exceeded 86.000 tons, surpassing initial estimates and reversing previous downward trends. This represents a 7% increase over the previous season, although it is still 18% below the peak export.

Early-season conditions in Chile were favorable, as cooler weather delayed ripening, resulting in a stable harvest and quality fruit. However, the more recent late-season conditions in Peru led to an influx of market participants, impacting prices. Chilean producers now face increased competition from Peru, Mexico, and Morocco during their traditional export season.

Chile is undergoing restructuring and repositioning, with an emphasis on transitioning to new cultivars and improving orchard management to optimize fruit firmness, size, and postharvest life. Older varieties, which presented quality problems during long ocean transports, are being replaced. "Chile has years of experience and data to make the best decisions regarding technologies and varieties, and the replacement of varieties is already showing a renewed supply." Many less competitive orchards are migrating to frozen berry production.

The net area planted for fresh fruit export has decreased due to discarding, but new plantations offer higher yields and meet market standards for fresh fruit. The industry is investing in logistics improvements and new technologies, such as cold chain management and controlled atmosphere transport, to ensure fruit quality during transportation.

Chilean exporters maintain a strong presence in diverse markets, with continental Europe as the main destination (41% of exports by early 2025), followed by the United States (35%), and a smaller share in Asia and the United Kingdom. This market diversification helps Chile manage fluctuations in demand. Chile remains a major supplier to Europe during the winter months, and European buyers depend on Chile, along with Morocco and Spain, for off-season fruit.

Chile's advantage over Peru lies in the diversification of its export markets, supported by industry coordination and the promotion of Chilean Fruit Exporters Association (ASOEX). This association promotes Chilean blueberries worldwide, including strategies for entering Southeast Asian markets.

Organic blueberries are a growing trend in Chile, representing around 12% of exports and targeting premium market segments.

On the economic front, Chile is facing margin pressures due to rising labor and input costs, as well as falling market prices, which are impacting profits. Labor shortages and rising wages are complicating harvests and raising costs. High interest rates are making it difficult to finance new orchards or replanting, slowing cultivar improvements. These factors contribute to a cautious mindset in the industry and delayed responses. However, consolidation is taking place, with the number of exporting companies having decreased from 190 to 110 in five years, indicating improvements in efficiency.

By 2025-2030, Chile is projected to remain the world's second-largest exporter, with annual shipments of between 80.000 and 100.000 tons, provided conditions are favorable. Growth will be gradual, thanks to Chile's strategic advantage in its experience and customer relationships.