South Africa's blueberry industry is consolidating its position in global trade, supported by more consistent supply and predictable logistics. The United Kingdom continues to lead as the main destination, the Netherlands maintains its role as a European logistics hub, and the United Arab Emirates is expanding as a high-value market. Germany, Hong Kong, and Singapore are also increasing their import volumes.
The United Kingdom has established itself as a core retail market, where delivery consistency and brand positioning define long-term value. The Netherlands remains central for re-export within Europe, optimizing flows and transit times. Meanwhile, markets in the Gulf and Southeast Asia have reduced dependence on a single destination. UAE imports rose from 562 tonnes in 2020/21 to 1,873 tonnes in 2024/25, while Germany reached 1,838 tonnes in 2023/24 before adjusting to 1,568 tonnes in 2024/25. Hong Kong and Singapore continue to serve as key logistics hubs for Asia.
Between the 2020/21 and 2024/25 seasons, South Africa's blueberry exports increased 44%, from 18,285 to 26,301 tonnes. A slight 0.68% decrease occurred between 2023/24 and 2024/25, from 26,482 to 26,301 tonnes, but rejection rates remain low, sustaining the reputation of South African fruit. The growth in exports is driven by productivity improvements rather than expanded acreage. Orchard maturation, varietal replacement with higher-yielding materials, and improved temperature control and post-harvest handling have strengthened consistency at destination.
Compliance with traceability and residue standards in the European market remains a prerequisite for competitiveness. Investments in post-harvest management and data monitoring allow exporters to maintain firmness, sugar content, and uniformity across shipments.
Following logistical disruptions and oversupply from Peru in 2021–2022, new varietal introductions are planned for 2025–2026. Selections from the United States, Australia, and Spain aim to improve yield, calibre, and shelf life. The production base is concentrated in two regions: the Western Cape, representing about 60% of output, and the Northern Region (Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and KwaZulu-Natal), contributing 40% and expanding with younger plantations.
Harvest timing supports export programs. The Northern Region begins in June, peaking in August, while the Western Cape follows with a one-month delay. Counter-seasonal varieties enable supply continuity for domestic and export markets.
The sector's focus now is on strengthening destination consistency in the UK, improving operational coordination through the Netherlands, and expanding trade routes to the Gulf and Southeast Asia. Enhanced thermal control, quality monitoring, and logistics coordination remain priorities as the industry moves into the next production cycle.
Source: Blueberries Consulting
