Miguel Bentin, president of the Blueberry Producers Association of Peru (ProArándanos), stated that Peru is expected to export nearly 5,000 tons of blueberries this year, 233% more than in 2013.
"Last year we exported 1,500 tons of blueberries (U.S. $16.7 million) and we plan to triple that volume this year. We estimate prices will be similar to those of the previous two years," he said.
According to him, the main destinations of Peruvian blueberry this year will be the United States, continental Europe, Britain and Asia (mainly Hong Kong). Last year these markets accounted for 41%, 27%, 11% and 20% of exports, respectively. The remaining 1% corresponded to various destinations.
Bentin, who is also the CEO of Agroinversiones Pampa Valle y Peru SA, indicated that, currently, there were 1,000 acres of blueberries installed in the country and an additional 400 to 500 acres were being installed.
"The various blueberry crop initiatives are located in Trujillo, Caraz, Lima, Ica and Arequipa," he said, adding that there was also potential for the development of the berry in other areas, such as Nazca, Cajamarca and the northern coast.
He also indicated that over 95% of the installed areas of blueberries belonged to members of ProArándanos, which demonstrated guild's significant representation.
"Tal SA, Camposol, Exportadora Fruticola del Sur, ProAgro, Agricola la Venta y Valle y Pampa made part of the foundation of the association. More companies, however, have joined the association; companies such as Arato Peru, Agricola Don Ricardo, Agricola San Juan, ProBerries and Agricola Isabel, among others," he said.
Miguel Bentin stressed that the Biloxi blueberry variety was the main variety being planted and produced in Peru. However, he said, the companies associated with ProArandanos are evaluating other new varieties.
Source: Agraria.pe