Intellectual property specialist Global Plant Genetics and berry grower and shipper FD Berries have established a berry licensing and supply chain agreement in India.

Global Plant Genetics said the new agreement will allow FD Berries to grow some of the world's leading evergreen and low-chill blueberry genetics and license them to third-party contract growers.

FD Berries has made “substantial investment” in tissue culture and modern nursery facilities, according to Global Plant Genetics, allowing “the highest quality plants” of the new varieties to be introduced into the fast-growing Indian market. .

“Indian growers, retailers and consumers will have opportunities to access world-class varieties that we believe will change the blueberry landscape across India,” said Rupert Hargreaves, co-owner and director of Global Plant Genetics.

“Working with Sam Ahilan and his team on this project has been a pleasure and our combined strengths and FD Berries’ wealth of blueberry growing experience in many countries will be a real asset to the success of this exciting new relationship.”

FD Berries managing director Sam Ahilan said Global Plant Genetics' new blueberry varieties met all of his requirements as a berry grower and shipper in terms of productivity, size, firmness, shelf life and flavour. “Having seen this portfolio of genetics in various places, I am convinced that we will positively lead the blueberry sector in India,” he said.