The EastFruit team continues its analysis of global blueberry markets, focusing on Chile, the first nation to emerge as a global leader in fresh blueberry exports. Chile held the top position in blueberry exports for decades before Peru's emergence, maintaining a strong presence in the industry. After years of stagnant or declining exports, Chile's blueberry sector is stabilizing. The 2023/24 season saw exports exceed 86,000 tons, surpassing initial estimates and reversing previous downtrends. This represents a 7% increase from the prior season, although still about 18% below peak exports.
Early-season conditions in Chile were favorable, with cooler weather delaying ripening and resulting in a steady harvest and quality fruit. However, Peru's expanded late-season overlap led to a market influx that impacted prices. Chilean growers now face increased competition from Peru, Mexico, and Morocco during their traditional export window.
Chile is undergoing restructuring and repositioning, focusing on transitioning to new cultivars and improving orchard management to enhance fruit firmness, size, and post-harvest life. Older varieties, which faced quality issues during long sea freight, are being replaced. "Chile has years of experience and data to make the best decisions regarding technologies and varieties, with variety replacement already starting to showcase a renewed mix." Many less competitive orchards are shifting to frozen berry production.
The net planted area for fresh exports has decreased due to culling, but newer plantings are higher yielding and meet fresh market standards. The industry invests in logistical improvements and new technologies, such as cold chain management and controlled atmosphere shipping, to ensure fruit quality during transit.
Chilean exporters maintain a strong presence in various markets, with Continental Europe as the primary destination (41% of exports in early 2025), followed by the United States (35%), and smaller shares to Asia and the UK. This market diversification helps Chile manage demand fluctuations. Chile remains a major supplier to Europe during winter months, with European buyers relying on Chile alongside Morocco and Spain for off-season fruit.
Chile's advantage over Peru lies in diversified export markets, supported by coordinated industry efforts and promotion by the Chilean Fruit Exporters Association (ASOEX). The association promotes Chilean blueberries globally, including strategies to enter Southeast Asian markets.
Organic blueberries are a growing trend in Chile, comprising about 12% of exports, targeting premium market segments.
Economically, Chile faces margin pressures due to rising labor and input costs and lower market prices, affecting profits. Labor shortages and increasing wages complicate harvests and raise costs. High interest rates challenge financing for new orchards or replanting, slowing cultivar upgrades. These factors contribute to a "cautious industry mindset" and delayed responses. However, consolidation is occurring, with the number of export companies reducing from 190 to 110 over five years, indicating efficiency gains.
By 2025–2030, Chile is expected to remain the second-largest global exporter, shipping 80,000–100,000+ tons annually, contingent on favorable conditions. Growth will be incremental, with Chile's strategic advantage in experience and customer relationships.
Source: EastFruit
