In 2023, Mexico was at the forefront of global blackberry production, contributing 21.8 percent to the world's total, as reported by the Ministry of Agriculture. This positioned Mexico ahead of Vietnam and New Guinea, with the latter two countries combined matching Mexico's output.
Blackberries, cultivated in about 60 countries, are known for their sweet, slightly tart flavor, and are packed with vitamins C and K, dietary fiber, minerals like manganese, and antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins. These nutritional benefits make blackberries a popular choice for a variety of food products.
With a production volume reaching 238,000 tons, Mexico saw a 4.8% increase over the decade's average and a 7.0% rise from the previous year, highlighting the country's expanding role in the berry industry. Blackberries, alongside strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, are recognized for their nutritional and commercial value, offering a range of flavors from sweet to slightly acidic.
The period between 2018 and 2023 marked a significant growth in Mexican blackberry exports, which surged from 77,389 tons to 88,075 tons, an increase of 13.8%. The value of these exports also saw a substantial rise, from $405 million in 2018 to $754 million in 2023, indicating an 85.9% growth. The United States and Canada emerged as the primary markets for these exports, with the former seeing a 16.7% increase in shipments and the latter a 52.4% growth.
Source: Opportimes