The general director of the National Association of Berry Exporters (Aneberries), Juan José Flores García, told El Economista that the berry sector faces significant challenges that could lead to an 18-20% decrease in foreign sales. This is due to a series of adverse factors, including climate change and drought (which have reduced the quality of these fruits), the presence of pests and diseases, unfavorable variations in the exchange rate, shortage of specialized labor, increase in production costs, and a slowdown in the main consumer markets.
According to Flores Garcia, the main export destinations are the United States, Canada, Japan, some countries in the Middle East, and Europe. However, the fluctuations in the Japanese market and the euro have complicated the situation. Berry producers have modernized their crops and have efficient water use. However, fruit varieties are not adapted to withstand the extreme heat and drought conditions that affect much of the country.
Blueberry prices, in particular, have experienced a notable drop; a situation that has affected the states of Jalisco and Sinaloa the most. Competition from Chile, the United States, and the Peruvian harvests (which coincided with Mexican production peaks), could have influenced the fall in prices, Flores García stated. In addition, he said, there is a 15-20% general deficit of specialized agricultural laborers.
To address the sector's challenges, the Aneberries 2024 International Congress will be held at Expo Guadalajara on July 24 and 25. Nearly 3,000 people are expected to attend the event, including the main producers, exporters, and suppliers of inputs and services. The event will focus on different topics, such as abiotic stress and its impact on plants and their performance, market expectations for the sector, and labor shortages. There will also be a charity run for Father Cuéllar's foster home. The race will be held at the Metropolitan Park.
Source: www.eleconomista.com.mx