The Egyptian blueberry season has been underway since January and is scheduled to end in May. The current period sees a peak in harvest volumes, coinciding with a slow harvest pace in Egypt's main competitor, Morocco. Karim Fayed, Operations Manager at Fayed Agricultural Development Company (FATA), provides an overview of the season's progress.
© Karim Fayed, FATA
The season began with increased acreage, following a steady growth trend over the past few years. Mr. Fayed says: "The area devoted to blueberries in Egypt has continued to increase, reflecting the growing interest of both growers and international markets. Compared with last season, we are seeing a significant increase in the planted area, which continues to grow. Early indications suggest a significant increase in overall production volumes for this season, thanks to the ripening of newly planted fields."
© Karim Fayed, FATA
According to the grower, climatic disruptions have impacted production but not to the point of derailing the season. He explains, "The 2024-2025 season presented some climatic challenges, particularly with fluctuating temperatures during key growth stages. A relatively mild winter contributed to steady plant development but was accompanied by unexpected temperature variations, which influenced flowering, fruit set, and overall yield. However, fruit quality remains high on our farm, with good sizes, firmness, and flavor meeting the expectations of the international market."
Egyptian growers are pursuing their strategy of an early season combined with varieties producing larger sizes. This choice is proving effective, according to Fayed: "Early varieties remain a priority to capitalize on Egypt's strategic advantage in the market, by guaranteeing their availability before the start of the European production peak. In addition, growers are investing in new genetic varieties that enhance resistance to environmental stress and improve post-harvest performance, guaranteeing better marketing and extended shipping capacities. In terms of sizing, the focus this season has been on larger sizes, which seems to be the trend for the future."
© Karim Fayed, FATA
The season's commercial results seem to be in favor of the players in this young industry in Egypt. "Demand for our blueberries remains strong, particularly in Far Eastern and Middle Eastern markets, where buyers appreciate the country's early season window and the specs of the produce we grow. We expect the supply chain to run smoothly during harvest peaks, as it did last year, due to the availability of freight between regions and Egypt's position as a global logistics hub," Fayed concludes.
For more information:
Karim Fayed
Fayed Agricultural Development Company (FATA)
Tel: +201001499959
Email: karim.fayed@fata.com.eg
www.fata.com.eg