The association has reported a downturn in the overseas shipments of blueberries from Chile, with expectations set on a forthcoming recovery as the harvest intensifies. "By week 47, the accumulated volume shows a 28% decrease compared to the same date of the previous year and 14% less than the accumulated estimate to date. However, a recovery of this delay is expected in the coming weeks, as the harvests in the area begin with greater force, which should balance the actual volumes with the estimated ones," stated Andrés Armstrong, executive director of the Chilean Blueberry Fruit Committee.
Despite the initial setback, the season's start has been marked by a notable improvement in blueberry quality, attributed to weather conditions that, while slowing ripening, have enhanced the fruit's quality. "This start of the season marks a record in the quality that the Blueberry Committee verifies weekly for its members. This, together with the increase in new varieties, has meant a very positive start to the season for national producers and exporters. This season, again with data from week 47, shows that 63% of the kilos exported correspond to new varieties, which reflects an increase compared to the previous campaign, where exports of new varieties, at the same date, reached 50%," Armstrong elaborated.
Armstrong also highlighted the ongoing efforts by the committee members to maintain a competitive edge through the enhancement of the fruit's flavor profile and the incorporation of new varieties into their plantations. "The Committee members identify themselves with their seal of belonging, marking their commitment to quality, varietal renewal, and the development of our industry," Armstrong concluded.
Source: Blueberries Consulting