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Mexican berry exports forecast to decline 2.22% in 2024 due to rising costs and challenges

In 2024, it is projected that exports of Mexican berries, including strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, and blueberries, will see a reduction to approximately 529 thousand tons, marking a decrease of -2.22% from the 541 thousand tons exported in 2023. This forecast was shared by Juan José Flores, the director of the National Association of Berry Exporters (Aneberries), who noted the industry has been grappling with several challenges such as labor shortages, increasing input costs, and exchange market volatility.

The anticipated downturn in both export and production volumes for the forthcoming year was discussed by Flores during the Second Press Tour of Agricultural Journalism, an event co-organized by the Mexican Association of Journalists and Directors of Agricultural Media (AMEXMA) and The International Federation of Agricultural Journalists (IFAJ). He attributed the slowdown to macroeconomic factors, including the strengthening of the peso against the dollar, rising input costs, and climate change impacts.

Despite these challenges, Flores emphasized Mexico's position as a leading exporter of berries to the United States and Canada, although he acknowledged a 17% decline in exports starting from the 2022-2023 period. The berry sector is highlighted as a vital source of employment in Mexico, generating between 63,000 and 500 jobs across 600 hectares of farmland, with wages significantly above the minimum wage.

For 2023, berry production in Mexico was reported at 540.980 tons, with projections for 2024 estimating a decrease to 486.881 tons. Flores also mentioned Aneberries' efforts to diversify markets, including campaigns to strengthen exports to the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, and aspirations to expand into South Korea, India, and Thailand. Despite the focus on international markets, there's an ongoing initiative to boost berry consumption within Mexico through collaboration with various government bodies and the promotion of local consumption campaigns.

Addressing sustainability, Flores highlighted the adoption of efficient irrigation techniques by some Jalisco berry producers, resulting in a 30% reduction in water usage and decreased reliance on fertilizers. This approach underscores the sector's commitment to sustainable production practices.

Source: Blueberry Consulting

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