Georgian growers started the exports blueberries last week, prices at the beginning of the season are high and comparable to the 2021 season, even though labor costs have increased. Blueberry exports started with high prices as demand exceeds supply at this point. Exporters are paying growers from $5 to $7 USD/kg, depending on the quality.
Quality is measured by the size, softness, and appearance of berries. Usually, exporters visit the field to check the quality themselves. Frequently, blueberries are sold directly from the fields without precooling and storing the harvest by the farmers.
According to official trade data, in 2021 the average export price of Georgian blueberry in June was $6.3 US dollars but dropped to $5 US dollars in July. Growers expect the same scenario this season. In July prices will be much lower as supply will reach its peak.
Most of the harvest is sold to exporters to Russia, although some of the growers plan to export to Middle East countries, including UAE and Qatar, by air and even by land.
Source: east-fruit.com