"China: "Greenhouse blueberries enter the market"

"The surface area for domestic blueberry production is relatively limited in comparison with other popular fruits. Production areas are distributed over Pindu in Qingdao, Yunnan, Fujian, Jiangxi, and Jiangsu. Pingdu and Yunnan are the two main production areas. These two production areas plant different varieties and also enter the market at different times. Greenhouse blueberries from Pingdu enter the market in large volumes around April 14th. The open-field blueberries enter the market between mid-June and early July." This is according to Mr. Liu Wei of Xiamen Xin Wei Hong Trade Co., Ltd. (Shandong Qingsen Fruit Cooperation).

"The retail situation for blueberries was less than ideal in the last two years, because the price was relatively high. This year, however, the conditions have changed. Consumers are showing a considerably stronger interest in blueberries. This development mainly stems from a growing understanding among consumers of the medicinal and nutritional value of blueberries."

"We cooperate with blueberry plantations in Pingdu within a 'company + cooperation' structure. The plantations cover around 33 hectares, which include both open-field plantations and greenhouse plantations. The harvest this year has been generous. We currently sell our blueberries mainly through wholesale markets and supermarkets in first and second tier cities."