The Peruvian blueberry industry is expecting a huge 40 percent rise in exports this season to about 165,000 metric tons (MT).
The South American country overtook Chile last season becoming the world’s largest exporter of fresh blueberries, sending 120,000MT to overseas markets. The Peruvian blueberry association ProArandanos reports peak volumes were forecast for early November, when a little over 10,000MT of fruit is expected to be shipped.
Asian countries are set to receive the biggest increase in percentage terms, with exports to the region due to double over last year. Meanwhile, exports to Europe are expected to increase by 50 percent, and to the U.S. by 25 percent. Peru exports about half of its blueberry volume to the U.S., 30 percent to Europe, 15 percent to Asia and the remaining 5 percent to other countries in South America, as well as the Middle East and the Caribbean.
Peru expects to export to Taiwan for the first time this coming season, having gained market access in March. The country began its export season in May, with shipments to Brazil and Thailand.