The Peruvian blueberry industry continues to strengthen its position in international markets, with the United States, Europe and China as its main destinations.

According to Luis Miguel Vegas, general manager of ProArándanos, the 2024 campaign has been characterized by a slower start than usual. “Normally, in August we already have significant volumes, but this year, due to the El Niño phenomenon in 2023, many companies chose to prune later, which delayed production,” he explains. Despite this start, the campaign has already entered its peak, with exports concentrated between September and November.

Peruvian blueberries, known for their quality, are reaching their main international markets in perfect condition.

As for destinations, the United States remains the main buyer, with nearly 50% of the total blueberries exported from Peru, followed by Europe with 30% and China with between 10% and 15%. "We are present in more than 30 countries, but without a doubt, the American market is the most important," adds the manager.

Peru has managed to position itself as one of the world's largest exporters of blueberries thanks to its ability to produce throughout the year. This is largely due to its favourable climate and constant varietal innovation.

Vegas points out that, in addition to traditional varieties such as Ventura and Biloxi, the country has introduced new varieties such as Sekoya Pop and Eureka, which has diversified and strengthened its offering. “These varieties offer greater competitiveness and help increase consumption in key markets such as the United States,” he says.

In terms of prices, Vegas notes that the campaign has shown encouraging signs: "Although prices have not reached last year's levels, when they doubled due to lower supply due to El Niño, they have remained at good levels so far."

As for the coming months, the market seems to be stable, although it is difficult to predict how prices will evolve as the campaign closes in November.

ProArándanos remains optimistic about the future of the industry, with a strategy that seeks not only to increase export volume, but also to diversify markets and avoid the concentration of supply in a few commercial windows. “It is essential to grow strategically, ensuring that our product is available at different times of the year so as not to saturate a single market,” concludes Vegas.

ProArándanos was present at the Global Fresh Produce & Floral Show held last week in Atlanta, Georgia.