Supply chain woes are making headlines once again this week. The continuing high truck rates and the lack of available drivers, along with winter weather, consumer stockpiling, and the spike in virus rates caused by the Omicron variant, are all being cited as contributing factors in empty store shelves being seen across the country.
In addition, port backlogs are at an all-time high, with a record 105 ships reported to be awaiting berthing spots for unloading at Southern California ports and a total of 146 ships waiting outside all major U.S. ports.
Mexican blueberry crossings through Arizona, California, and Texas movement expected to increase. Trading was active to very active at higher prices, due to limited competition from Chilean fruit. Quality and condition of Mexican berries is reported as variable.
Movement of Chilean imports of blueberries via boat through both various East Coast and West Coast ports of entry is expected to increase as harvesting increases in Chile, with current supplies in too few hands to establish a market for both coasts. The F.O.B. price report is not yet being issued, well past the usual start date for this report. Overall fewer Chilean blueberries are making their way to US markets than usual. There are reports that shipments are being delayed by labor shortages in Chile and held up in inspections, as well as diverted to other countries.
Movement of Peruvian imports of blueberries arriving through both the Philadelphia and New York City areas and through Southern California ports via boat is expected to decrease as the season nears its end. Trading was active for light supplies, with prices unchanged. Quality is reported as generally good for this late in the season.
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Source: mymarketnews.ams.usda.gov