Blueberry growers and importers are making a significant economic impact in the United States, contributing nearly $9.100 billion annually, or nearly $25 million a day, according to new reports from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. US Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC).

“These new reports reaffirm what our industry has long recognized: blueberry growers have a powerful and positive impact on the U.S. economy,” said Kasey Cronquist, president of the USHBC. “Thanks to the ongoing commitment of growers and our importing partners, blueberries are available year-round, helping to create and sustain thousands of jobs while generating billions of dollars in economic activity.”

The study, conducted in February 2025 by Dr. Dennis Tootelian of California State University, Sacramento, focuses on the economic contributions of highbush blueberry growers and importers. It found that the industry generates 61.676 full-time equivalent jobs each year. This figure excludes employment generated by processors or handlers, meaning the actual employment impact is even greater. The labor income generated by these business activities amounts to $3.300 billion annually, or $9,1 million daily, generating wages and salaries that ripple through the economy as spending on essential goods such as food, housing, transportation, and healthcare. The industry also generates $277,9 million annually in indirect corporate taxes, excluding income tax, equivalent to about $761.000 daily.

In the United States, highbush blueberry growers contribute $6.700 billion to the national economy each year, creating 49.260 full-time jobs. Additionally, they generate $2.400 billion in labor income and $193,1 million in corporate excise taxes annually. Eight key states lead national production: Georgia contributes $917,3 million in economic impact and 6.840 jobs; Washington follows with $710,6 million and 9.500 jobs; California adds $564,2 million and 3.850 jobs; Michigan generates $529,4 million and 6.100 jobs; Oregon produces $467,6 million and 4.330 jobs; Florida accounts for $414,9 million and 3.100 jobs; New Jersey contributes $215,8 million and 2.425 jobs; and North Carolina adds $164,5 million and 1.225 jobs.

Imports also play a critical role in supporting the U.S. market by ensuring year-round availability. Imported blueberries from Peru, Mexico, Chile, and Canada represent an annual economic impact in the United States of nearly $2.400 billion, 12.415 full-time equivalent jobs, $876,2 million in labor income, and $84,8 million in corporate indirect taxes. While grown abroad, these berries drive commercial activity within the United States through handling, logistics, distribution, and retail sales. Peru leads among importing partners with an impact of $1.300 billion and 6.521 jobs, followed by Mexico with $455 million and 2.325 jobs, Chile with $357,2 million and 1.825 jobs, and Canada with $348,9 million and 1.750 jobs.

"This study demonstrates how both domestic production and international partnerships drive our economy," Cronquist said. "Blueberry growers, both in the United States and abroad, are creating lasting value throughout the supply chain."