At the 39th International Blueberry Seminar held in Lima, the discussion on quality once again emerged as a central focus for the industry. In a context of increased supply, persistent logistical demands, and signs of climate variability, the ability to maintain consistent fruit that is well-received by consumers appears as one of the key competitive advantages for the blueberry business. blueberry.

In conversation with Blueberries Consulting, Haydeé Quevedo, Quality Assurance Manager at Driscoll'sHe analyzed the scenario facing the upcoming campaign and addressed the main points of focus by destination. From his perspective, the industry must prepare with increased monitoring, coordinated efforts, and operational flexibility, without losing sight of the fact that flavor and the final consumer experience remain the product's key differentiator.

—How have you experienced this seminar?

As always, with great enthusiasm. I believe it's a very valuable opportunity to reconnect with the various players in the agribusiness sector, share experiences, exchange perspectives, network, and continue growing as a sector.

These types of events also allow you to gain perspective, stay updated, and strengthen ties that are important to face an increasingly dynamic and demanding industry.

—How do you envision the next season in light of the increased supply, climate variability, and current market behavior?

Each year presents different conditions, and this upcoming season also comes with signs that require close attention, especially regarding the weather. There are alerts that must be monitored closely and cannot be disregarded in the planning process.

Along with that, the industry must continue working to obtain quality products sustainably, in order to maintain its position as a benchmark. Beyond volume, it has been shown that a blueberry Good taste and a better consumption experience are what ultimately make the difference in the market.

Haydeé Quevedo, Quality Assurance Manager at Driscoll's, at the International Blueberry Seminar Lima 2026. © Blueberries Consulting.

—What do you think are the most vulnerable points today in markets like China, Europe, and the United States?

Each destination presents different challenges. In China, for example, everything related to the cold chain upon arrival of the fruit remains crucial. This is an aspect that still requires monitoring and continuous improvement.

In the United States, tariffs remain a major concern. In Europe, the situation stemming from the trade war could lead to restrictions or the need to explore alternative routes and destinations. Therefore, it is crucial to closely monitor developments in each market and global conditions that may affect fruit exports.

—What strategies do you consider necessary to face that scenario?

We need to work very closely with logistics operators and evaluate alternative routes when necessary. It's also important to closely monitor developments with refrigerated containers, shipping lines, and variables like oil prices, which can directly impact operations.

From a climate and operational perspective, the best approach is to work with plans A and B. This requires multidisciplinary coordination between departments to assess risks in advance and define different response alternatives depending on how the season evolves. blueberries.

Participation in the International Blueberries Seminar Lima 2026

Haydeé Quevedo participated in the 39th International Blueberries Seminar Lima 2026 as a panelist on “Loss Reduction and Quality Maximization with a Systemic Approach: From the Supply Chain to the End Consumer,” an event focused on connecting management, condition, and commercial performance at the destination. In this context, her perspective reinforced an increasingly prevalent idea in the industry: in the blueberry business, competitiveness depends not only on volume, but also on the ability to maintain quality, consumer experience, and consistency throughout the entire supply chain.

Haydeé Quevedo, along with the panelists of “Loss Reduction and Quality Maximization with a Systemic Approach: From the Chain to the Final Consumer” © Blueberries Consulting.

More information about Haydeé Quevedo's participation:

Lima 2026 concluded with a roadmap for blueberries: consistency, technology and an integrated supply chain

More information about upcoming seminars:

International Blueberry Seminars 2026: Blueberries travel through Peru, Chile, Mexico, Morocco and China 

Check out the full interview on our channel. Youtube Blueberries TV