The Peruvian blueberry sector, a youthful yet thriving segment of the agricultural export market, recently encountered its first major challenge due to the climatic disturbances wrought by El Niño. This phenomenon led to a decrease in production volumes and a delay in the harvesting season. Despite these setbacks, the industry experienced a paradoxical benefit as the resultant scarcity of blueberries on the global market drove up prices, offering a financial reprieve to producers who faced delays in reaching the market.
Advancements in genetic development and the resilience of Peruvian farmers have played a crucial role in overcoming these obstacles, reinstating Peru's status as a frontrunner in the blueberry export arena. This recovery is underscored by the increased volumes being dispatched to international markets, particularly noticeable in Europe. The Netherlands serves as the primary entry point for Peruvian blueberries into Europe, with significant portions passing through Amsterdam and Vissigen ports.
As of week 45, Peru had exported 46.014 tons of blueberries, marking a 60% increase from the previous year and aligning with the industry's projections. The majority of these exports were transported by sea, emphasizing the sector's logistical preferences and capabilities.
Key contributors to these export volumes include Complejo Agroindustrial, Camposol, and Danper Trujillo SAC, amongst others, showcasing diverse company participation within the industry. The varietal composition of the exports is led by Ventura and Biloxi strains, with a significant portion of the shipments also comprising newer, unspecified varieties.
Regionally, La Libertad and Lambayeque are the leading contributors to blueberry exports to Europe, demonstrating substantial growth over the previous year. This performance illustrates not only the recovery of the Peruvian blueberry industry from climatic challenges but also its dynamic expansion and solidification as a global industry leader, supported by strategic varietal innovation and a robust export infrastructure.
Source: Blueberries Consulting