During the 35th International Blueberry Seminar on April 10th at the Monticello Conference Center, the Chilean blueberry industry's current state was analyzed. The focus was on fruit quality, a key factor for the industry's medium and long-term development. Other challenges, such as varietal renewal and anticipating potential tariff scenarios in markets like the United States, were also discussed.
The Chilean industry spans over 18 hectares, producing over 140 tons. Average productivity exceeds 8 tons per hectare, a figure that struggles to compete globally. Achieving around 20 tons per hectare through improved varieties is seen as a path to regain competitiveness.
Of the 140 tons produced, 90 tons were fresh and almost 60 were frozen, offering a cost-effective avenue for producers. The frozen food sector benefits from lower costs, with about half of the production harvested mechanically.
According to Agronometrics data, economic returns show price stabilization, reversing previous downward trends. Positive projections amidst global expansion, with production over 700 million tons and an average 60-ton annual growth in global shipments, suggest a potential boost for Chilean blueberries in the export market.
Source: Blueberries Consulting
