Hortifrut has joined forces with India's IG Berries in an agreement that will accelerate the development of the country's berry market. Hortifrut has committed US$20 million to the company, which it said will allow the association to expand its current presence in India.

IG Berries was created as a joint venture between Indian fruit importer IG International, Australia's Mountain Blue Orchards (MBO) and agribusiness investor Mano D. Babiolakis.

Tarun Arora, CEO of IG International, said the combination of partners, which now includes Hortifrut, was truly groundbreaking for the fresh produce industry in India.

“IG Berries is the first company of its kind focused on high-tech blueberry production in India and Hortifrut is a global company known around the world for its strategic alliances and leadership in the berry sector,” he said.

"Our new partnership with Hortifrut as the world leader in blueberries and IG International's strength in distribution and logistics will ensure that this expansion transforms the soft fruit business in India for years to come."

According to the general director of Hortifrut, Juan Ignacio Allende, the association provides a great platform in a new market.

“We are excited to be a part of the changing landscape and the opportunity to invest alongside the partners in IG Berries,” he said. “We see the potential and opportunity as significant and look forward to being part of the berry growth story in India and beyond.”

Hortifrut's head of Asia Pacific, Bobby Yavari, said that each of the parties brings different areas of expertise to the company.

“This is a unique and synergistic partnership comprised of Hortifrut as a world leader in blueberry production and marketing, IG Berries with a strong supply chain, and world leading MBO blueberry genetics.

"In addition to our related experience and investment, Hortifrut will also bring the best varieties, including raspberries and blackberries, to one of the most dynamic and promising markets in the world."

MBO varieties are exclusive to IG Berries in India. “The focus in India has always been to expand and grow the local market by bringing the best tasting blueberries to the consumer,” said MBO CEO Andrew Bell.

“Our investment has focused on all aspects of the supply chain, from plant propagation in our own tissue culture lab to the end consumer. With Hortifrut on board, we will now have the scale and the opportunity to boost consumption."

Babiolakis, who has worked in the industry for nearly four decades, said the partnership was one of the most exciting he has been a part of.

“Seeing this project take shape from the initial meetings in 2017 to where we are today is incredible,” he said.

“The team on the ground has done an exceptional job setting up the project in a challenging and demanding environment.

"Now, with the resources, firepower and experience that the new partnership has available, we have the opportunity to be a major player and real-world leader in a very exciting new market."