According to Petchell (Global Plant Genetics), the sector is moving away from traditional varieties to enter a new phase defined by genetics, production intensity, and international competitiveness.

"The conversations I had were not about whether change will come, but about how quickly it can be implemented and which producers will be best positioned when the new scenario settles," he says.

From maturity to modernization

Chile was one of the pioneers of the global industry of blueberrycontributing to shaping international markets and consumer demand. However, Petchell believes that this same maturity now implies that the industry must continually renew itself to remain relevant.

In several regions, he observed widespread replanting, modernized production systems, and a growing reevaluation of what constitutes a commercially viable variety. "It's not just about varietal renewal; it's a structural change," he explains.

Genetics as a strategic decision

One of the most recurring themes that Petchell found was the central role that varietal choice has acquired for long-term commercial survival.

The producers, he points out, are very aware that they no longer compete only with neighboring farms, but with high-quality products from all over Latin America, Africa, Europe and Asia.

“Quality is no longer a differentiating factor; it’s the starting point,” Petchell points out. “The real competition now lies in consistency, shelf life, flavor, firmness, fruit size, and post-harvest resistance.”

This is especially relevant for Chile's fresh produce export markets, where retailers are tightening their specifications and consumers are becoming increasingly demanding.

"Without the right genetics, even the most experienced producers will struggle to maintain their margins," he adds.

Climate realities influence decisions

Climate change is no longer an abstract discussion in Chile, according to Petchell: it is influencing practical decisions on the ground.

Areas that previously required a high number of chill hours are being reclassified as medium or even low chill areas, while heat tolerance and seasonal stability have become essential characteristics.

"This climate change is redefining what breeders, nurseries and producers consider viable long-term options," he explains.

Observations from the field

Petchell notes that visiting test fields, nurseries, and tissue culture laboratories together with GPG's licensed partners —SynergiaBio, Viveros Hijuelas, and Viveros Sunnyridge— allowed them to observe firsthand how quickly the industry can advance when there is alignment.

One of the most striking developments he observed was the rapid entry into production of new varieties with low chilling requirements, which significantly improves profitability during the first years of establishment.

“Five or ten years ago, varietal change used to be incremental,” he says. “Today it seems intentional. This change is no longer theoretical: it’s happening.”

Chile's next phase

Looking ahead, Petchell believes that the Chilean industry of blueberry It will be noticeably different in five to ten years.

It anticipates larger and more consolidated production areas, with larger average areas per farm, supported by leading varieties capable of performing throughout wider production windows.

"Success will not be defined solely by volume, but by consistency, fruit quality, cost efficiency, and post-harvest performance—characteristics that are being developed by our breeding partners at Oregon Blueberry and The University of Georgia," he says.

Given that harvesting costs and labor pressures are unlikely to decrease, the varieties that will succeed will be those that reduce inputs, simplify management, and continue to offer high-quality fruit.