Achieving quality fruit requires multiple efforts on the part of producers. In this process, genetics plays an increasingly important role in adapting the fruit to the demands of the global market. In Peru, new varieties have been developed that aim to improve productivity, disease resistance, and fruit quality. These topics were discussed in the panel discussion "Genetics, Market Demands, and Fruit Quality" held at the XXXVII International Seminar Blueberries Trujillo 2025 by Blueberries Consulting.

This panel included specialists from Peru and Chile such as Julio Zavala, general manager for Peru of Fall Creek Farm & Nursery; Marcelo Luengo, CEO Planasa Peru; Lorraine Pinto, commercial manager of Osiris Plant Management, and José Luis Ubaldo, commercial manager for Peru of the University of FloridaThe moderator was Jorge Esquivel, director of Blueberries Consulting.

Genetics leads changes in the industry

In his presentation, Julio Zavala noted that Peru is experiencing a second era in the blueberry industry. This new era has Peru as a global leader in blueberry production and export, thanks to the work carried out in innovation. “New genetics are driving all the changes. Changes that will occur and are already being used in other species such as table grapes. Changes will also occur in the use of soils or substrates and different technologies that are being incorporated. In addition, the market knowledge that each company has been developing in greater depth makes us Peruvians more creative in continuing to develop this industry,” he mentioned.

Aim for sustainability over time

For his part, Marcelo Luengo noted that there is currently a wide range of options in the genetic program, and while it can be difficult for producers, good selection is a very important factor in production. “Varietal replacement aims to improve the company's productivity. Climate change must be considered, and understanding this variable helps ensure sustainable cultivation over time.”

In this regard, he mentioned that to ensure a sustainable product, we must find varieties that guarantee adaptation to the climate and conditions of the crop fields and that meet market demands, generating profitability.

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Leveling the playing field between large and small producers

For Lorena Pinto, the development of the blueberry industry in Peru has been significant. “I think the growth of the blueberry industry in Peru is impressive; it has grown tenfold or more between 2016 and 2025. It has been possible to explore and discover new, very interesting growing areas, and it is up to companies to develop the potential of these new areas. There is also a lot of foreign investment with new technology, but there are small producers who have not yet reached this new technology,” she noted.

In this regard, he mentioned that the next challenge is "to level the playing field a little so that Peruvian products are as homogeneous as possible, ensuring that large companies aren't the only ones with the best technology and that smaller producers aren't at a disadvantage," he said.

Overcoming adverse climates

José Luis Ubaldo emphasized that the potential of the Peruvian industry lies in overcoming adverse climates, to the point that people come from abroad to learn about the work done by Peruvian producers.

"Varietal replacement goes hand in hand with Peru's demands, based on its climatic conditions and unique characteristics. These changes are important in addition to meeting producer demands," he noted.

Thus, he recommended careful selection to identify the varieties best suited to Peru's different geographic regions and climatic conditions. Furthermore, varieties should be harvested at different times of the year, ensuring the product can be sold in different markets at competitive prices.

Produce the most months a year

For Zavala, it's important that Peru's blueberry supply be available for as many months as possible throughout the year, which will allow "consumers to remember us." Therefore, the choice of fruit varieties will be essential to achieving this goal, which will ultimately open up new markets.

Blueberries Consulting Photography – 2025th International Blueberries Seminar Trujillo XNUMX

“One topic I discussed with the people at Senasa is new markets. There are countries that are growing, like Morocco, India, China, and Egypt, and that forces us to look for other markets. For example, we're working to introduce blueberries to Japan and South Korea. But to achieve this, producers must manage high-yield varieties and manage cost efficiencies with equipment and labor costs.”

The importance of fruit firmness

Lorena Pinto emphasized that earlier varieties are now available, allowing them to produce outside of peak months and thus supply the market year-round.

“We need to look for varieties that have natural firmness and size, so that we can enhance that potential with agronomic technology. It helps us differentiate the country with superior quality that builds customer loyalty and makes them say, 'OK, the varieties that come from Peru have good sweetness, firmness, and an intense blue color.' It's about seeking out what the markets want and breaking away from the mainstream of producers so that markets pay more for these products,” he said.

And although genetics plays an important role in this entire process, there is still work to be done in different areas. As Julio Zavala points out, "It's not just genetics and climatic conditions that will lead to a variety's success, but also the agronomic management of each producer. Agronomic management may or may not complement a variety's potential," he concluded.

Continue on World Blueberry Tour el Wednesday September 10 ’s relationship with the 2025th International Seminar on Red Fruits, Morocco XNUMX and technical tour where we will visit production fields in the North of the country Thursday, September 11.

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