In 2023, the area devoted to blueberries in Peru increased to 18,614 hectares, distributed in eight key regions of the country, stated Luis Miguel Vegas Arias-Stella, general manager of the Association of Blueberry Producers and Exporters of Peru (ProArándanos). This growth was highlighted during the webinar "Peru's 2023-2024 Blueberry Campaign", organized by Fluctuante. According to the webinar, Peru has 65 varieties of blueberries.
The regions of La Libertad, Lambayeque, Ica, Lima, Ancash, Piura, Moquegua, and Cajamarca are now home to extensive blueberry growing areas. La Libertad leads with 8,448 hectares, followed by Lambayeque with 5,391 hectares, and other regions that, although to a lesser extent, contribute significantly to the national total. The most cultivated varieties in 2023 were the Ventura, Biloxi, Sekoya Pop, Rocío, and Emerald blueberries, along with a diversity of other varieties that add up to 30% of the total area.
This panorama contrasts markedly with 2016 when there were 1,932 hectares of blueberries in only six regions and just 13 known varieties. Back then, La Libertad concentrated the majority of production with 90% of the total. The Biloxi was the most planted variety, closely followed by the Rocío, Ventura, and Emerald blueberries, among other varieties.
The vertiginous growth of the blueberry industry in Peru showcases the Peruvian producers' capacity to adapt and grow. It also highlights the growing importance of this berry in the global market, where Peru is positioned as a relevant player.
Source: agraria.pe
