With the start of blueberry export harvests in Argentina in August, the industry is concerned about the possible shortage of air cargo capacity.

The Argentine government has canceled all commercial flights until September 1, which could cause problems for the early fruit.

"Last year, in August, Argentina sent 50% of the production by air and 50% by sea," the president of the Argentine Blueberry Committee, Federico Baya, told FreshFruitPortal.com.

“That 50% that is sent by air transport is what will probably be affected by the measures.”

Baya and Alejandro Pannunzio of the Mesopotamian industry body are in talks with the national airline Aerolineas Argentinas to try to secure flights for the initial exports of the season and guarantee the flow of the fruit to foreign markets.

"We are sure that we will have their collaboration to be able to supply destinations that demand our fruit."

Argentina typically exports around 16,000 metric tons (MT) of blueberries, with almost all going to the United States, the United Kingdom, and Europe. Harvests for the local market begin in June.

Although Argentina's blueberry industry is concerned about the logistical aspects of the upcoming season, one thing it is satisfied with is the increased demand for fruit around the world, and especially blueberries.

“Blueberries are revitalizing, especially in the United States, a country with more than 300 million people and an average annual consumption of 800 grams per person,” Baya said.

Pannunzio added that consumption is also increasing in Europe.

“So the market is definitely there. The question of how much consumers will be willing to pay is the big question,” he said.

The representatives added that Argentine blueberry companies have implemented new protocols to protect workers amid the Covid-19 pandemic.