The early end of the European season fueled strong demand for imported blueberries from Peru and Argentina. Faced with the shortage, importers such as SFI Rotterdam They even resorted to air transport, while high demand in European supermarkets keeps prices high and consolidates the dependence on overseas fruit.

There's a lot of activity in the Peruvian blueberry import market right now. "We received the first container on August 20 and were surprised by the good market conditions.", account Jan Marc Schulz, from the Dutch firm SFI Rotterdam. "The Polish season ended early, something many importers didn't expect, so there was a rush on overseas blueberries."

SFI was forced to import blueberries from Peru by air last week. "We're usually reluctant to do so due to the high costs and CO₂ footprint, but the current market situation required increasing volume.", argues Jan Marc. "We're seeing some more congestion in air freight, which shows that others are also importing more by air, rather than in containers."

"Last weekend, blueberry growth in Peru was still slow due to the cold weather there. Therefore, no major changes are expected in the market in September. Demand from European supermarkets is high. Almost all European supermarkets want or have already switched to blueberries from overseas.", says Jan Marc. In addition, SFI imports blueberries from Argentina. "Air freight rates from there are a little more favorable, and that allows us to be very competitive."

Blueberry prices are at a good level.Trays with 17 mm+ fruit are now easily sold at 18 euros per box. indicates the importer. "We hope that Peru will be able to distribute its supply evenly across different markets throughout the season, as a peak supply situation like the one two years ago would not be good for the market."

There is currently no significant demand for varieties premium, says Jan Marc. "In a situation of scarcity, demands are lowered, and the only thing that matters is having access to the fruit. When there is more supply again, everyone will go back to looking for the larger, sweeter varieties."