There has been a notable influx of Yunnan blueberries into the fruit market recently, attracting buyers from all over China. Consequently, the market volume for blueberries is steadily rising. Earlier this year, both Yunnan and Sichuan witnessed a surplus of high-quality domestic blueberries, resulting in soaring prices due to exceeding demand, especially for larger-sized blueberries. However, with increased arrivals, the prices have started to decline recently.
April marks the peak supply period for Yunnan blueberries, characterized by abundant output and stable quality. Consequently, the fruit market prices have been steadily decreasing in recent days. As the Yunnan blueberry season gradually nears its end, a small quantity of Shandong blueberries has started to appear in the market. Given their lower cost, Shandong blueberries are likely to dominate the market towards late April. Anticipations suggest that post-May Day, blueberries from Anhui, Sichuan, Liaoning, and other regions will enter the market successively. As temperatures rise further, blueberry production will decline, potentially leading to wholesale prices dropping to around ¥10/box for larger fruits.
Currently, the market primarily consists of the final batch of Yunnan blueberries, with fluctuating quality. Premium products with a pure sweet taste are scarce, resulting in an oversupply situation upon arrival in the market. Consequently, the prices for average-quality blueberries remain stagnant. The prevailing average prices for blueberries in the Jiaxing Fruit Market today are 12+ (¥75-85/box), 15+ (¥90-95/box), 18+ (¥105-115/box), and 22+ (¥130-140/box).
Compared to last year, the prices of blueberries this year are lower due to expanded cultivation across China, with the number of provinces producing blueberries increasing from 10 to 27 by 2023. This expansion has led to a significant rise in blueberry production, resulting in a surplus compared to the previous year. The initial high production levels, coupled with supply outstripping demand, have contributed to the price drop.
This year, the Chinese blueberry market is witnessing a notable decrease in imported blueberries, keeping prices relatively high. This shift is primarily due to the superior quality of domestic blueberries compared to imported ones. Imported blueberries typically take 20 to 30 days to transport, impacting their freshness and taste negatively. In contrast, domestic blueberries are fresh fruits, reaching the market within three days of harvesting, resulting in better taste and presenting new opportunities for the domestic blueberry market.
Source: FreshSaga