In a milestone for Peruvian agro-exports, the first shipment of 18 containers has already been made from the recently inaugurated port of Chancay, bound for Shanghai, China. This shipment, transported on the ship Xin Shanghai 150W, includes 230 metric tons of fresh blueberries that will cross the Pacific in just 26 days, 10 days less than before, helping the fruit preserve its properties and flavor. This breakthrough not only ensures a sweeter and fresher fruit, but also improves the end consumer experience, boosting confidence in this product.
"The success of Peruvian blueberries is not limited to the Chinese market. The demand for this fruit is also on the rise in countries such as South Korea, Japan, Indonesia and Vietnam thanks to its nutritional qualities and its versatility as a healthy snack," says John Early, commercial director of Agrovision Peru.
"To meet this growing demand, Peruvian producers have adopted innovative strategies that include the use of artificial intelligence in cultivation and the introduction of new varieties, such as the Sekoya, which guarantee a consistent, high quality production during the 52 weeks of the year. These markets offer half a billion potential consumers," says John.
"Besides, the development of projects in other regions, such as southern China, is allowing us to complement the Peruvian supply with local production between January and May. This global strategy ensures a continuous presence in the most competitive markets and allows us to optimize the product supply worldwide," he says.
"The Asian market, particularly China, stands out for paying 25-30% more for local blueberries than for imports, thanks to the freshness and sweetness resulting from their shorter transit time. In the United States and Europe, the demand continues to grow, with these markets accounting for 40% and 30% of Peruvian exports, respectively. The global preference for blueberries as a healthy snack, driven by the pandemic, is allowing competitive prices and sustained growth on both continents," says Early.
The impact of blueberries goes beyond the international market; it is also an essential economic driver for agricultural communities in Peru. "The sector not only generates employment, but also promotes local development through community programs and the use of sustainable technologies. This commitment is strengthening the country's position as a leading berry exporter," says John Early.
Peruvian producers are currently exporting between 250 and 280 containers of blueberries per week and expect sustained growth in the coming years. "The entry into production of new plantations and the market diversification guarantee a promising future. Berry consumption, especially that of blueberries, continues to boom, and is soon expected to overtake bananas in global popularity," says Early.
For more information:
John Early
Agrovision Peru
Tel.: +51 1 421 3468
Tel.: +51 986 279 458
[email protected]
www.agrovisioncorp.com