For IG International, their blueberry production is doubling every year. Although the Indian importer will not export any of the current season’s blueberries, the intention is to find new markets in 2023. Harvesting for this season started about a week ago and they are available in three major cities in India, with all other major cities being reached soon.
According to Shubha Rawal, head of procurement for Indian fresh produce trader IG International, their blueberry production will double year-on-year: “For the blueberry season, we’re expecting a total volume of 200 tons. In 2021 this number was at 80 tons, and for the 2023 season we anticipate a total volume of 500 tons. This means we’re aiming to at least double our blueberry production every year. As production is 200 tons for this year, and keeping the consumption in the Indian market in mind, we do not have any plans to export our blueberries this season. However, we will definitely open up new export markets for season 2023.”
As the IG Blueberries will not be exported this year, the focus is on the domestic market. Rawal states that blueberry consumption is growing among the Indian consumers. Therefore, the objective is to get the harvested produce to the consumer shortly after the harvest.
“Blueberries as a category are growing tremendously. Thanks to the marketing initiatives and year-round supply possibilities, the demand and the consumption show a growing trend. When we talk about fresh produce, logistics and the supply chain are the only challenges that one can face, provided that the crop is good. The fruit looks great this season and with IG’s strength in logistics, warehousing, sales, and marketing, it becomes relatively easy to make the product available across India. We started harvesting IG Blueberries just a week ago and they are already available in three major cities. Looking at the harvest plans, they'll soon be available in almost all cities in India.”
“We grow certain varieties that are licensed and patented by our Australian partners which give us an edge in providing the best quality blueberries in India. The second-best feature is the size of these berries, which on average is 18mm.” Rawal concludes.
For more information:
Shubha Rawal
IG International PVT LTD
Tel: +91 9899487775
Email: [email protected]
www.iginternational.net
