Summary of the global blueberry market

31/08/2016

While northern Europe prepares for the end of the season, producers in South America are looking forward to the harvest. In some European countries, the harvest has finished earlier due to the heat. Also in the northwest of the United States the season has ended earlier than usual. For its part, Chile hopes to reach the market sooner this season. Around the world, demand for blueberries is on the rise. China is a large market and the country has proposed opening its borders to Uruguay. North Korea uses "berries" to introduce foreign currency into the country and asks part of the population to harvest these fruits.

Mexico sees the new season with optimism

Next month, the season will start in Mexico and prospects are optimistic. A large producer says he is focusing more on organic farming, driven by the growing demand for organic products around the world. In Latin American countries, the season begins in September and although Mexico can not compete in terms of volume, it can do in quality, according to the producer. In addition, merchants use contracts and the country has access to other markets. Although Argentina and Peru are also present in the market, one producer explains that Mexico has a good position in some countries thanks to agreements signed in advance.

The domestic market is developing well. Although berries are relatively unknown, demand is increasing. In any case, export markets are more attractive. Russia is an attractive destination for traders, and this concerns both the Russian market and the access that the country grants to many non-EU countries. Additionally, exporters are trying to enter South Korea, Thailand and Malaysia, but negotiations are still ongoing.

Source: FreshPlaza and AGF.nl