According to recent Rabobank research, the blueberry industry is becoming truly global, with fast-growing supply and/or demand in most continents. Per capita availability is set to continue an upward trend in the US, the EU-27+UK, China, and other markets, driven by continued production expansion.
The bank issued a report, saying competition on the global playing field is increasing, with Peru marching on and Mexico and a few other up-and-coming exporters expanding shipments. Going forward, industry trends include: the probability of declining unit prices for Peruvian exports, stagnation in Chilean production, and an increase in substrate-grown berries in Mexico.
As the blueberry industry faces increasing input costs, labor issues, and logistical challenges, companies are pushed to become more productive and efficient, and to consistently provide high-quality fruit. The adoption of improved cultivars and technologies such as the use of substrates, protected culture, and mechanical harvesting will help growers solve a number of supply-side challenges.
Source: research.rabobank.com