Currently, the blueberries on the market are still dominated by Peruvian blueberries, with a small amount of Chilean blueberries arriving. Blueberries from China arrived on the market in October, more than two months earlier than last year. The market is paying more and more attention to the development of domestically produced blueberries.
"The current arrivals are Yunnan blueberries. In the past, except for a few big brands that arrived in December, most brands were launched after the Chinese New Year. However, several brands have arrived in October this year. In addition, blueberries produced in Northeastern China, which used to be on the market in March, are expected to arrive on the market before the Chinese New Year." Shandong Kunfeng Fruit is mainly engaged in importing and wholesale blueberries produced in China. Mr. Cai Xinglei, from the company, introduced relevant information.
"If the weather does not change suddenly, it is estimated that domestic blueberries will be mass-produced and launched in mid-December. The production areas include Yunnan, Guangdong, and Jiangxi, and the output will be greater than in previous years. This is mainly due to the improvement of planting management technology and the cultivation of new varieties."
Talking about the performance of domestic blueberries, Cai said that the early arrival volume was small, but continued to be available; some batches were not ideal in terms of white bloom and taste due to farmers rushing to market early, but many arrivals are already attractive in terms of taste and size. "This year's Yunnan blueberries are larger, with size of 36mm+ or even larger. Yunnan's planting technology is getting better and better, and some production areas have been able to achieve two harvests a year. Connected to other production areas, it is estimated that domestic blueberries will be continuously supplied throughout the year."
With the rapid development of the blueberry market, the planting area and output of domestic blueberries are increasing year by year. Some high-quality brands have better prices than some imported brands because their taste is more suitable for the Chinese market. At the same time, many orchards are working hard to introduce and cultivate new varieties: "New varieties that have performed well in recent years include Bianca, L25, and F6, as well as R&D or proprietary varieties of individual brands. Some new products were mass-produced last year and launched earlier than traditional varieties, and some are expected to be mass-produced next year. These varieties taste pure and sweet and sell for a higher price. The demand for blueberries in the Chinese market continues to grow."
Talking about Peruvian blueberries, which are currently the main market, Cai said that this year’s situation is special. The weather in the production area has affected the output. The number of blueberries arriving in the Chinese market has been greatly reduced. The price has nearly doubled than before, and the overall quality is not as good as before.
"The market can continue to sell, but the volume is not large. The quality depends on the brand and variety. Some fruits arriving are not accepted by buyers due to insufficient hardness. There are also some brands with good management, and the quantity and quality are relatively stable. Fewer brands are arriving this year, and some smaller brands have not arrived, or the quality of the arrivals is not good and the market is afraid to take them in."
In terms of purchasing preferences, it is reported that in the past, third-class fruits were the most popular in terms of volume, but this year, price and quality need to be taken into consideration. Currently, second-class blueberries have the best volume, accounting for 60-70%, and third-class ones are the least popular.
Shandong Kunfeng Fruit Co., Ltd. mainly sells blueberries and cherries, selling at wholesale market stalls.