The supply of Peruvian blueberries has been difficult over the past two months, with very low volumes sold at record-high prices. Theo Benjert and Rob Pakvis from Berryland expect an increase in supply soon. "In November, we expect to see at least triple the volume compared to the past few months. However, this increase will be short-lived, as supply will drop again in December. Prices are expected to decrease slightly, but we anticipate they will remain higher than last year."
"Peruvian growers are facing several challenges. In some regions, the effects of El Niño are still lingering. While not everyone is affected, some growers have lost as much as 60% of their crops. The biggest issue this year, however, is pruning. Many growers pruned late because prices were high at the time, expecting this wouldn't have any consequences, but the plants ended up producing significantly less fruit. Last year, total supply was 40% below forecasts; this year, volumes are 60% behind. While prices are good, they are nowhere near making up for the lost kilos."
The raspberry market is also facing difficulties. "We expect a shortage this winter. Mexican growers received significantly fewer plants than they ordered, meaning almost all the fruit had already been pre-sold. We're seeing China and North America competing for Mexican fruit, while Russia, traditionally a major buyer from Mexico, is now turning to Morocco. This makes for a challenging season, as Morocco has also received fewer plants. Although the country started harvesting earlier, the price is slightly under pressure because most retailers are still offering Belgian and Dutch raspberries. But I expect prices will skyrocket once supermarkets switch to imports. There won't be much fruit available in the winter months," says Rob.
The blackberry market is also experiencing significant shortages. "There's very little Dutch and Belgian product, which is causing major supply gaps. However, we're seeing many new and promising varieties being introduced in Morocco this winter. One example is the Indra, a large and strong berry with great flavor. This variety is now also being grown by our growers in Tanzania. We see Tanzania as a promising market for soft fruit. We already had raspberry projects there, but now blackberries, blueberries, and strawberries are being cultivated. While it's still on a small scale, we have high expectations for this market," Theo and Rob conclude.
For more information:
Rob Pakvis / Theo Benjert
Berryland
Honderdland 70, Maasdijk
Mob: +31 6 83431868
[email protected]
www.berryland.nl