The Community Plant Variety Office (CPVO) has granted Community plant variety protection to a set of new varieties of blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.), by decision no. EU 71461, adopted on 16 February pursuant to Council Regulation (EC) no. 2100/94.

The resolution recognizes the Netherlands-based company FV.BV as the holder of the rights to the varieties of blueberry from the range Blue World, such as Demba (FV1908), Dana (FV1907), Aila (FV1905), Lena (FV1904), Selma (FV1901), Selena (FV1905) as well as 'FV1902' and 'FV1903' which do not yet have a trade name, with protection until December 31, 2056 throughout the territory of the European Union.

To onubafruit, exclusive licensee in Spain, Portugal and MoroccoThis milestone reinforces their commitment to varietal innovation as a key driver of competitiveness. "The new varieties stand out for their performance, quality, and adaptation to international markets, in a context where genetic differentiation is increasingly crucial," they state.

This progress is supported by market recognition: varieties such as Demba and Dana have been distinguished by the International Taste Institute and enjoy high acceptance in European distribution, which values ​​their regularity, consistency and reliability.

“Furthermore, access to protected varieties improves farmers’ profitability, strengthens farm stability, and generates value in rural areas, aligning innovation and sustainability,” Onubafruit maintains. “At a sector level, the OCVV’s decision consolidates genetic improvement as a driving force for the transformation of the crop.” blueberry "in an environment of increasing global competition," they add.

Onubafruit anticipates a production of around 20.000 tons of blueberries This season. Around 50% of their blueberry supply are of the following varieties Blue World, which they expect to grow between 10 and 15% annually in the coming campaigns.

© Onubafruit

The second-tier cooperative, which brings together various cooperatives from Huelva, is one of the main producers and marketers of red fruits with a solid presence in European markets.

The Dutch company FV. BV specializes in the development and management of plant varieties, with a particular focus on berries. Its activities encompass the breeding, protection, and licensing of new varieties.

Onubafruit holds 50% of its shares, which strengthens the connection between varietal development and production, directing innovation towards the real needs of the market.