As in neighbouring countries, Uruguay's blueberry exports have suffered the impact of the weather conditions of the past few days. While it is estimated that the continuous rains and floods will not significantly affect the production, the harvest and shipments have both been delayed for a few weeks.
Uruguay mainly exports its blueberries to the United States and Europe. Although there have been fluctuations in recent years, the volume shipped this year to North America, (US and Canada) accounts for about 60% of the total. As far as the European market is concerned, 33% of exports go to this continent. It was noted that the UK was the European country importing the least Uruguayan blueberries this campaign.
Also, the demand from the US and Europe has declined in recent weeks, causing sales to slow down, with the consequent overall price drops and high stocks of fruit. "In view of this situation, access to new markets is a priority for us." This week, an official delegation from China visited three companies producing and exporting blueberries. Despite the logistical challenge of reaching distant markets, Uruguay already has experience in Asia, and therefore, this will not be an obstacle," explains Marta Bentancur, of Upefruy.
This market is expected to open for Uruguay in a couple of weeks, so the prospects are improving for both producers and importers. "As for the quality of the fruit offered by Uruguay, the flavour is remarkable and technological efforts are being made to obtain fruit with a great internal quality and also of good size," concluded Bentancur.
For more information:
Marta Bentancur Sevetti
Upefruy