In recent years, the global blueberry market has seen new entrants reshaping the supply landscape. Countries like Colombia, Georgia, Ukraine, and Zimbabwe, previously minor players, are now emerging as competitive exporters.
Colombia, with its nascent blueberry sector, is expanding rapidly. By 2024, the country exported approximately 628 tons of fresh blueberries valued at $3.3 million. The Colombian Agricultural Planning Unit (UPRA) projects a 669% increase in blueberry acreage by 2026, reaching 3,000 to 5,000 hectares. Colombia's equatorial climate allows year-round production, enabling it to supply counter-season markets in both hemispheres. Colombian blueberries have access to U.S., European, and Asian markets, with production expected to rise sharply by 2030, potentially making Colombia a significant Latin American supplier.
Georgia has capitalized on its favorable climate and foreign investments to boost its blueberry exports. In 2023, exports surged 2.5-fold to about 2,000 tons, placing Georgia among the top 20 global exporters. The country has seen an average annual growth rate of 55% from 2019 to 2023. With proximity to high-value markets like the Middle East and the EU, Georgia's exports could reach 5,000–6,000 tons by the late 2020s.
Despite challenges from the ongoing conflict, Ukraine's blueberry industry has shown resilience. Exports grew annually by 21% from 2019 to 2023. In 2022 and 2023, exports increased significantly, with most berries reaching EU markets under trade preferences. If stability returns, Ukraine could become a major European exporter by 2030.
Zimbabwe, a surprising new entrant, has rapidly risen in the export rankings. Previously nonexistent, Zimbabwe now ranks around 13th globally, with an annual growth rate of 48%. The country's early season window gives it a market advantage, with projections suggesting exports could exceed 10,000 tons by the decade's end.
Other countries like Morocco, Egypt, and India are also contributing to the evolving blueberry market landscape. As Andriy Yarmak, FAO Economist, noted, "While most attention is on the top five exporters, the most dynamic growth often occurs among countries outside the top ten."
These new entrants present both opportunities and challenges. They offer new supply sources and counter-seasonal fruit, potentially boosting consumption. However, their rapid growth could lead to oversupply concerns and price pressures. Established exporters face fresh competition, highlighting the need for market development and demand stimulation globally.
Source: EastFruit