Blueberry growers and importers are generating a significant economic impact in the United States, contributing nearly $9.1 billion annually, equivalent to almost $25 million per day, according to new reports from the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC).
"The new reports reaffirm what our industry has long recognized: blueberry growers have a powerful and positive impact on the U.S. economy," said Kasey Cronquist, president of the USHBC. "Thanks to the ongoing commitment of growers and our import partners, blueberries are available year-round, helping to create and sustain thousands of jobs while generating billions in economic activity."
© U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council
The study, conducted in February 2025 by Dr. Dennis Tootelian of California State University, Sacramento, focuses on the economic contributions of highbush blueberry growers and importers. It found that the industry supports 61,676 full-time equivalent jobs each year. This figure excludes employment supported by processors or handlers, meaning the actual job impact is even greater. Labor income generated by these business activities totals $3.3 billion annually, or $9.1 million each day, providing wages and salaries that ripple across the economy as spending on essentials like food, housing, transport, and healthcare. The industry also generates $277.9 million in indirect business taxes annually, not including income tax, equivalent to about $761,000 per day.
Within the U.S. specifically, highbush blueberry growers contribute $6.7 billion to the national economy each year, creating 49,260 full-time jobs. U.S. growers also generate $2.4 billion in labor income and $193.1 million in indirect business taxes annually. Leading the way in domestic production are eight key states: Georgia contributes $917.3 million in economic impact and 6,840 jobs; Washington follows with $710.6 million and 9,500 jobs; California adds $564.2 million and 3,850 jobs; Michigan generates $529.4 million and 6,100 jobs; Oregon produces $467.6 million and 4,330 jobs; Florida accounts for $414.9 million and 3,100 jobs; New Jersey contributes $215.8 million and 2,425 jobs; and North Carolina adds $164.5 million and 1,225 jobs.
© U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council
Imports also play a critical role in supporting the U.S. market, ensuring year-round availability. Blueberries imported from Peru, Mexico, Chile, and Canada account for nearly $2.4 billion in annual U.S. economic impact, 12,415 full-time equivalent jobs, $876.2 million in labor income, and $84.8 million in indirect business taxes. Though grown abroad, these berries drive business activity within the U.S. through handling, logistics, distribution, and retail sales. Peru leads among import partners with $1.3 billion in impact and 6,521 jobs, followed by Mexico with $455 million and 2,325 jobs, Chile with $357.2 million and 1,825 jobs, and Canada with $348.9 million and 1,750 jobs.
"This study shows how both domestic production and international partnerships power our economy," Cronquist said. "Blueberry growers, whether in the U.S. or abroad, are creating lasting value across the supply chain."
To view the full report, click here.
For more information:
Kassia Barajas
U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council
Tel: +1 956 605 4521
Email: [email protected]
www.ushbc.blueberry.org
