Peru is consolidating its position as the world's leading blueberry exporter with record sales to the world's main markets of more than $ 2.27 billion in 2024, in a season that will continue until April this year, according to the Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation (Midagri).
Peru ended last year with an extraordinary production and export volume, even though the campaign will continue until April 2025. In 2024, the country exported 326,000 tons, 57% more than in 2023.
Photo: Midagri.
Organic blueberries accounted for more than 11% of all exports and were aimed at covering an important segment of the international market, Midagri added.
In 2024, Peru has consolidated its position as the world's leading exporter of this fruit. In 2023, the decrease in supply from Peru and other suppliers, such as Mexico and Colombia, led to a rise in international prices that allowed Peru's blueberry export value to increase by 23% over 2022.
It's also worth noting that the average price of blueberries has increased from $4.6/kilogram in 2022 to more than $8.5/kilogram in the second half of 2023, and more than $8.9/kilogram in January 2024. By the end of 2024, the average price stood at $8.5/kilogram.
© MidagriPhoto: Midagri.
The sector reported that, if there are no climatic phenomena generated by El Niño or La Niña, such as high temperatures, torrential rains, or water shortages, the export volume this year could exceed 350,000 tons.
Peru is in a position to offer blueberries outside the high season like other countries such as Chile and the United States, which have shorter harvesting periods, as the conditions on the Peruvian coast and in the highlands allow for a continuous harvest all year round.
Photo: Midagri.
This constant supply of a quality product has allowed Peru to become the main supplier of fresh blueberries in key markets such as the United States, which is the largest importer, and China, which has substantially increased its demand.
Most blueberry exports in 2024 were directed to the US market (55% on average), 21% to the Netherlands, and 9% to Hong Kong. Together, these three markets accounted for 85% of total exports to the world. In addition, there is a gradual increase in blueberry exports to India, Russia, Taiwan, Singapore, Belgium, France, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia, among other important markets with high purchasing power.
For more information:
Ministry of Agrarian Development and Irrigation
www.gob.pe/midagri