Fulfilling all the expectations of the market, the Peruvian blueberry industry does not stop growing. Until week 30 of the current season, Peru has exported a total of 14.567 tons, which compared to the 7.299 tons of the previous campaign, is equivalent to a 100% growth.

Of the total blueberries shipped, 13.105 tons are conventional, increasing by 87% compared to the previous period when 6.966 tons were reached.

The logistics crisis affected the methods of shipping the fruit, with greater growth observed in air transport, where 907 tons were shipped, increasing by 116% compared to last year. Even so, maritime transport continues to lead the volume of blueberries exported, reaching 13.611 tons, but registering less growth than air transport, with an increase of 89%.

A significant increase had the export of organic blueberries. The high price of fertilizers and the increase in production costs motivated Peruvian producers to seek greater profitability in this type of crop, given the high price of organic blueberries in the market.

The exported volume of organic blueberries increased by 382%, registering 1.462 tons during the 2022-2023 campaign. In the same period, during 2021-2022, only 303 tons were exported.

The figures are surprising if one takes into account that the peak of Peruvian production is between the second half of September and the end of November. 

Although the United States continues to be the main market, with 5.853 tons shipped to the North American country (+75%), the growth of Peruvian blueberries in China is surprising. Shipments to the Asian country reached 4.954 tons, 183% more than last season, being the second most important destination for Peruvian berry producers. 

These markets are followed by Europe, with 1673 tons (+60%) and the United Kingdom with 1081 tons (+64%).

La Libertad continues to lead the exported production, with a 55% share of the total shipped until week 30, harvesting 7972 tons for export, which means an increase of 66%. The highest production growth during the same period last season is observed in Lambayeque, exporting 4024 tons with a growth of 365%. 

It is followed by the departments of Ancash with 1407 tons (+269%) and Ica with 499 tons (+183%).

To find out more about the state of the Peruvian industry, register for the next International Blueberry Month, an online event that will be held on August 16, 18, 23 and 25.