South Africa: Volumes of blueberries are growing
Blueberry production is growing in South Africa as the harvest begins in the north of the country. Ryan Davies, of United Exports, says that most of the early fruit goes to the domestic market, where they have small programs with retailers.
The last rains have fallen, especially in the south of the country and it is not affecting the northern harvest.
United Export's blueberry production is still reaching full commercial volumes and some farms are still in the first year.
“Farms that produced commercial volumes last year are exceeding predictions,” explains Ryan. "In the farms that are producing for the first year, the fruit looks good. We are satisfied for now, although we are a little behind the forecasts, but we will achieve it ".
The company anticipates a huge increase in overall volumes this year. Last year, total production was around 200 tons.
“We have programs with the UK and Europe, and promotions and programs planned with local retailers. We are focusing on expanding our presence in the domestic market and increasing programs in the UK, Europe, the Middle East and the Far East. These are our four main markets”.
The South African blueberry industry is trying to gain more access in the East, which could happen in the coming years.
United Exports supplies Europe in the window between the European season and the arrival of the first Chilean blueberries, around the 27 week through the 50 week.
“First of all, we are trying to promote the OZ brand. We are committed to this procurement program. There is a small amount of generic supply and some fruit under contract, but we will focus on the OZ brand.", Ryan ends.
Source: Fresh Plaza
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