Author Archive
As economic pressure continues to shape consumer choices, a clear trend is emerging: people are finding small, health-forward ways to treat themselves, and blueberries are leading the way. Demand is growing for high-quality, premium blueberries that deliver flavor and freshness, particularly among two distinct groups of shoppers.
First, older consumers with higher incomes ($150k +) or fixed retirement budgets prioritize quality and nutrition in their food purchases and worry less about convenience. For them, produce – especially blueberries – serves as a trusted source of wellness, offering antioxidants, natural sweetness, and versatility without compromise.
At the same time, a second group – middle-income households, especially those with busy, working-age adults – are making strategic choices about what to splurge on. While price remains a consideration, these shoppers are increasingly opting for produce that feels worth the investment, primarily when it supports long-term health goals and everyday convenience.
“We’re seeing shoppers become more intentional,” says Trisha Casper, Customer Insights Manager at Superfresh Growers. “Blueberries strike that perfect balance – healthy, satisfying, and just indulgent enough to feel like a treat without guilt.”
“This season’s Superfresh Growers blueberry crop fits this growing demand for high-quality, premium blueberries,” Trisha notes. “The Superfresh blueberry season is expected to start the third week of June with an abundant and promotable crop. Our Pacific Northwest farms have enjoyed optimal spring weather, providing ideal pollination conditions. We plan to have top-quality berries through September.”
The rise in premium blueberry demand reflects a broader shift in how consumers define value. It’s no longer just about the lowest price – it’s about getting the most from each purchase, especially when it comes to foods that support well-being and lifestyle choices.
As blueberry consumption continues to grow across generations and income levels, this nutrient-dense fruit is proving itself to be more than just a snack – it’s a smart, feel-good staple for modern shoppers and retailers have the opportunity to lean into this momentum by positioning blueberries as a dual-purpose fruit – one that supports health while offering a touch of indulgence.
From in-store signage to digital promotions, the message is clear: blueberries are a high-value item that meets wellness goals and everyday enjoyment.
USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service released the 2025 Acreage Report on June 30. The report showed a 2% overall decline in potatoes acres planted in 2025 (912,000 acres) compared to 2024 (930,000 acres).
Most states saw very modest planting changes this year compared to last year. Colorado (55,000 acres) and Wisconsin (68,000 acres) saw potato acreage gains of 1,000 acres each. North Dakota’s potato acres declined by 1,000 acres to 72,000 acres, while Maine (52,000 acres), and Minnesota (41,000 acres) saw 2,000-acre planting declines.
Washington saw the steepest single-state, year-to-year declines in 2025 at 145,000 acres compared to 160,000 acres last year.
The report notes that Washington potatoes “were emerging ahead of schedule with 95% of the crop emerged as of June 1.” Planting in Idaho, the largest potato-growing state with 315,000 acres planted (steady with 2024), was also noted as ahead of last year with 95% of the crop emerged as of June 15.
Even with the year-to-year changes in Washington, the report didn’t contain any significant surprises for Blair Richardson, CEO of Potatoes USA.
“The relatively minor adjustments to planted acreage estimates in the other states are likely a function of the regular ups and downs related to crop rotations, projected demand, contracted acreage with processing companies and other factors,” he says. “I did not see anything that seemed out of the ordinary.”
Aneberries, (the National Association of Berry Exporters in Mexico, are planning for a record-breaking season, forecasting a 25% increase in shipments to the U.S, rising from around 250,000 tons in 2024 to approximately 300,000 tons by the end of the 2024–2025 season.
Aneberries sees itself as a supplier of strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries to North America, thanks to its unmatched logistics. No other country rivals Mexico in delivering fresh berries to U.S. markets as quickly. Mexico already accounts for nearly 87.8% of all strawberries imported into the U.S., making up 14.8% of the total global export value in fresh berries Aneberries notes while the national berry cultivation area has shrunk, from over 148,000 acres in past years to an estimated 118,700–123,500 acres by November 2025, the industry is pivoting toward improved productivity and variety, rather than seeking increased land use. This strategic shift supports the strawberry export boom without expanding acreage.
Export trends vary across berry types: blueberry exports remain steady at about 63,000 tons despite reduced growing area in Jalisco and northern Sinaloa. Raspberry exports are expected to dip 3%–4%, down from 120,000 to approximately 115,000 tons. In contrast, blackberry exports are projected to rise by 8%, reaching between 80,000 and 85,000 tons, up from 77,000 tons.
Mexico’s berries aren’t just destined for the U.S, other key markets include Canada, Europe, Japan, and various Asian countries. Notably, blueberry shipments to Japan recently doubled, climbing from around 700–800 tons to approximately 1,600 tons.
Todd Greiner Farms Packing, LLC. (TGF) of Hart, MI, a leading grower/packer/shipper of Michigan produce, announces its 2025 sweet corn season. Shipment started the week of July 20th and peak volume expected the week of August 17th, just in time for Labor Day promotions.
This season, TGF will be offering premium bi-color sweet corn, commonly known as “butter and sugar” corn, celebrated for its vibrant color contrast and sweet, juicy flavor. With the company’s recent expansion into full-scale sales and marketing services, retail partners can expect enhanced support, consistent communication, and seamless order fulfillment.
“Todd Greiner Farms is excited to bring another season of high-quality Michigan sweet corn to our retail customers,” said Blake Hansen, National Sales Manager. “With our expanded sales team and marketing capabilities, we’re better positioned than ever to support retailers with a product that’s both a consumer favorite and a strong summer promotional driver.”
While TGF has long been recognized as a national leader in asparagus, Michigan’s reputation as an agricultural powerhouse extends well beyond. The state ranks second only to California in agricultural diversity, and is a top-10 producer of sweet corn, supporting strong seasonal supply programs for retailers nationwide.
According to Tastewise, sweet corn enjoys a long seasonal conversation with over 400,000 consumers engaging on the topic, peaking in both social media buzz and sales between May and October. Its versatility, nostalgic appeal, and summer-friendly preparation make it a reliable staple for produce departments throughout the season.
“We understand what sweet corn means to consumers in the summer months,” said Steve Rudat, Account and Supply Chain Manager. “It’s more than just produce—it’s tradition, backyard barbecues, and family memories. Our goal is to help retailers meet that demand with a high-quality product, shipped fresh and on time.”
Todd Greiner Farms Packing, LLC., located in Hart, MI, is a family-owned and operated fruit, vegetable, and evergreen grower/packer/shipper. Since its founding in 1994, TGF has maintained a reputation for quality and integrity, operating two packing/shipping facilities and holding a Primus Labs – Superior food safety rating. TGF’s diverse product offerings include asparagus, cherries, zucchini, sweet corn, peaches, hard squash, pumpkins, apples, and evergreens.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Fluctuante reports frozen Peruvian mangoes are regaining momentum after many producers shifted their focus to the fresh market last season. That trend may be be reversing in the 2024–25 season with 67,000 tons of frozen mango exported.”
Processing takes place in the same regions which grow fresh mangoes: Piura, Lambayeque, and Ancash.
Fluctuante notes when exporting frozen mango cubes or slices, you’re targeting a market that wants a ready-to-eat or easy-to-open product.
The main markets for Peruvian frozen mangoes are the United States, Canada, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Chile.
Because of oversupply and tariffs, the U.S. lemon industry experienced devastating price drops., but is now back to a more normal situation.
Interfresh of Orange, CA, reports prices have increased due to the tariffs issues being settled calming and fewer shippers. Interfresh noted at one point lemon f.o.b. prices were the lowest in 30 years.
With less competition there are fewer people selling lemons which is leading to higher prices. There also have been fewer lemon imports.
Imports from Argentina are now arriving, but more focus is being placed on markets such as Europe.
In March 2025, the U.S. implemented several rounds of tariffs, primarily targeting imports from Canada, Mexico and China. This had an impact on lemon exports.
The oversupply from California’s District 1 affected pricing, and the tariffs’ effect on exports exacerbated the issue. Plus, the decrease in U.S. lemon exports at the beginning of the year meant that the domestic market had to absorb a good amount of the supply.
Lemon supplies are now much tighter than in January and February. In the next three to four months, the greater demand and lower supply will lead to an increase in pricing.
KEYSTONE MARKETING
Keystone Fruit Marketing of Greencastle, PA has announced the launch of its inaugural Mexican lemon season.
As the exclusive marketer for this new program, Keystone is excited to offer high-quality lemons under its KFM Citrus label.
“This is a new and exciting chapter for us,” said Matthew Gideon, Sales and Commodity Manager at Keystone. “Our Mexico onion grower planted oranges and lemons a couple of years ago, and this season marks the first time our lemons are commercially viable. It’s a natural extension of our existing relationship, and we’re eager to build on our partnership moving forward.”
The program began in July and will run for approximately three months, with consistent weekly volumes expected throughout the season. Lemons will cross through South Texas and be distributed across the United States and Canada.
Initial production will start with 40-50 acres, with plans to expand to 100 acres by the 2026 summer season. Bulk cartons will be packed in Mexico, while a full lineup of consumer pack options will be available through Keystone’s third-party warehouse in South Texas.
Keystone Fruit Marketing is a division of Progressive Produce. Progressive Produce is a year-round grower/packer/shipper of fresh produce. We grow thousands of acres throughout North and South America of potatoes, onions, asparagus, citrus, and other fruits and vegetables and provide outstanding service 365 days a year.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
According to a report by IndexBox, the U.S. berries market will witness steady growth with a CAGR of 4% from 2024 to 2035. The raspberry and blackberry market has been experiencing growth for nine consecutive years, seeing 20% growth of $1.1 billion in 2020. The consumption peaked in 2020 and is expected to continue growing in the years to come.
In 2020, consumption of berries in the United States surged to 161,000 tons, growing by 31% compared with 2019. Revenue in the U.S. during that year also grew by 20% compared to the previous year.
The raspberry and blackberry market in the U.S. consists entirely of imported products; import prices have also increased sharply. However, despite the hike in price, the U.S. relies on foreign supplies due to insufficient domestic output.
According to the report, the U.S. will remain reliant on imports for at least the medium term.
Peruvian asparagus exports are showing a significant recovery due to better weather conditions boosting plant productivity and the implementation of corrective agronomic management, such as recovery fertilization and harvest rescheduling, according to Agraria.
The recovery of Peruvian asparagus has led to exports of 39,436 tons, a 42 percent increase over the previous year in May . This large Peruvian production has allowed it to cover destinations primarily in the United States and Europe.
While the year is looking favorable, 2025 could be even better for asparagus due to the Spanish season, which has been shortened by persistent rains, practically ending in May. This opened a window for Peru to obtain stronger prices that started in June.
Projections indicate that the Peruvian campaign could exceed previous year’s volumes by more than 30 percent.
The top destination for Peruvian asparagus is the U.S. and its high demand for this vegetable. In that country, annual consumption exceeds 300,000 tons, and local production barely covers between 10-15 percent of demand.
The United States’ main supplier is Mexico, which has managed to position itself in the conventional section and is developing the premium variety segment. In fact, the U.S. market shows a growing trend toward preference for the latter, which represents a challenge for Peru, whose supply remains concentrated in conventional varieties.
In Europe, the competition is different: major producing countries such as Spain, Italy, and Greece supply their domestic markets. However, consumer preference for asparagus year-round allows Peru to take advantage of being able to supply the market during the months when those countries are off production.
Even so, the margin for growth is more limited in this market, as the gap between production and demand is not as wide as in the United States, with only 15-20 percent of what they have to import from outside Europe. Peru’s strategy on this continent is to take advantage of periods of shortage in the European calendar.
As California pear farmers prepare to begin harvest of the nation’s first pears of the year, shippers expect a return to normal volume following last year’s short crop.
The California Pear Advisory Board met last week and established a pre-season crop estimate of 2.4 million 36-pound box equivalents for all pear varieties grown in the state. Last year’s 1.7 million package crop was the smallest crop in the past five years.
“We are excited to be able to offer retailers a full crop of pears in the coming season,” said Chris Zanobini, Executive Director of the California Pear Advisory Board. “Weather conditions have been optimal for producing excellent quality pears.”
The first pears from California are expected to begin harvest the last week of June in the River pear growing district with Sunsprite and Starkcrimson varieties.
“Bartletts are the main variety grown in California and they are the most popular with shoppers,” said
Zanobini.
California is expecting to harvest 1.6 million packages of Bartlett pears this season, which compares to 1.2 million packages that were harvested last season. Bartlett pears are also the preferred variety for processing and California growers expect to deliver 75,000 tons to the processing sector.
“The industry is expecting volume to be ideal for early-season retail promotions running from mid-July through October,” Zanobini emphasized. “As always, the California River pear growing district will be the first fresh pear of the year just as pears imported from South America are finishing. Retailers should plan to begin featuring fresh, new crop pears from California as soon as they are available in mid-July.”
Zanobini explained that Bartlett harvest in the River district started July 10, with harvest in the Lake and Mendocino counties beginning July 31.
Growers are also expecting good volume of Golden Russet Bosc pears this season as well along with a mix of other pear varieties including Bosc, Comice, Seckel, French Butter and red varieties.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
The Port of Oakland welcomed 2025 on a positive note, experiencing growth in both import and export volumes. In January 2025, loaded container volume reached 146,187 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units), marking an 8.5% increase from January 2024, which saw 144,405 TEUs.
“Strong import growth indicates the resilience of Northern California’s economy and reflects the confidence cargo owners have in our port,” stated Bryan Brandes, the Maritime Director of the Port of Oakland. “Export volumes remain steady, showcasing the ongoing global demand for U.S. agricultural and manufactured goods. This growth is a result of the dedicated efforts and collaboration among our labor force, terminal operators, and supply chain partners. We value their commitment and will continue to work together to enhance efficiency and expand capacity to better serve our customers.”
Loaded imports experienced a 13% increase, with 81,453 TEUs processed in January 2025, compared to 72,081 TEUs in January 2024. In contrast, loaded exports saw more modest growth at 3.4%, totaling 64,735 TEUs in January 2025, up from 62,596 TEUs the previous year.
Additionally, empty imports dropped significantly by 26.2%, with 12,625 TEUs departing the Port in January 2025 compared to 17,117 TEUs in January 2024. Conversely, empty exports rose by 19.8%, with the Port handling 34,363 TEUs this January, compared to 28,694 TEUs in January 2024.
As economic pressure continues to shape consumer choices, a clear trend is emerging: people are finding small, health-forward ways to treat themselves, and blueberries are leading the way. Demand is growing for high-quality, premium blueberries that deliver flavor and freshness, particularly among two distinct groups of shoppers.
First, older consumers with higher incomes ($150k +) or fixed retirement budgets prioritize quality and nutrition in their food purchases and worry less about convenience. For them, produce – especially blueberries – serves as a trusted source of wellness, offering antioxidants, natural sweetness, and versatility without compromise.
At the same time, a second group – middle-income households, especially those with busy, working-age adults – are making strategic choices about what to splurge on. While price remains a consideration, these shoppers are increasingly opting for produce that feels worth the investment, primarily when it supports long-term health goals and everyday convenience.
“We’re seeing shoppers become more intentional,” says Trisha Casper, Customer Insights Manager at Superfresh Growers. “Blueberries strike that perfect balance – healthy, satisfying, and just indulgent enough to feel like a treat without guilt.”
“This season’s Superfresh Growers blueberry crop fits this growing demand for high-quality, premium blueberries,” Trisha notes. “The Superfresh blueberry season is expected to start the third week of June with an abundant and promotable crop. Our Pacific Northwest farms have enjoyed optimal spring weather, providing ideal pollination conditions. We plan to have top-quality berries through September.”
The rise in premium blueberry demand reflects a broader shift in how consumers define value. It’s no longer just about the lowest price – it’s about getting the most from each purchase, especially when it comes to foods that support well-being and lifestyle choices.
As blueberry consumption continues to grow across generations and income levels, this nutrient-dense fruit is proving itself to be more than just a snack – it’s a smart, feel-good staple for modern shoppers and retailers have the opportunity to lean into this momentum by positioning blueberries as a dual-purpose fruit – one that supports health while offering a touch of indulgence.
From in-store signage to digital promotions, the message is clear: blueberries are a high-value item that meets wellness goals and everyday enjoyment.
USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service released the 2025 Acreage Report on June 30. The report showed a 2% overall decline in potatoes acres planted in 2025 (912,000 acres) compared to 2024 (930,000 acres).
Most states saw very modest planting changes this year compared to last year. Colorado (55,000 acres) and Wisconsin (68,000 acres) saw potato acreage gains of 1,000 acres each. North Dakota’s potato acres declined by 1,000 acres to 72,000 acres, while Maine (52,000 acres), and Minnesota (41,000 acres) saw 2,000-acre planting declines.
Washington saw the steepest single-state, year-to-year declines in 2025 at 145,000 acres compared to 160,000 acres last year.
The report notes that Washington potatoes “were emerging ahead of schedule with 95% of the crop emerged as of June 1.” Planting in Idaho, the largest potato-growing state with 315,000 acres planted (steady with 2024), was also noted as ahead of last year with 95% of the crop emerged as of June 15.
Even with the year-to-year changes in Washington, the report didn’t contain any significant surprises for Blair Richardson, CEO of Potatoes USA.
“The relatively minor adjustments to planted acreage estimates in the other states are likely a function of the regular ups and downs related to crop rotations, projected demand, contracted acreage with processing companies and other factors,” he says. “I did not see anything that seemed out of the ordinary.”
Aneberries, (the National Association of Berry Exporters in Mexico, are planning for a record-breaking season, forecasting a 25% increase in shipments to the U.S, rising from around 250,000 tons in 2024 to approximately 300,000 tons by the end of the 2024–2025 season.
Aneberries sees itself as a supplier of strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries to North America, thanks to its unmatched logistics. No other country rivals Mexico in delivering fresh berries to U.S. markets as quickly. Mexico already accounts for nearly 87.8% of all strawberries imported into the U.S., making up 14.8% of the total global export value in fresh berries Aneberries notes while the national berry cultivation area has shrunk, from over 148,000 acres in past years to an estimated 118,700–123,500 acres by November 2025, the industry is pivoting toward improved productivity and variety, rather than seeking increased land use. This strategic shift supports the strawberry export boom without expanding acreage.
Export trends vary across berry types: blueberry exports remain steady at about 63,000 tons despite reduced growing area in Jalisco and northern Sinaloa. Raspberry exports are expected to dip 3%–4%, down from 120,000 to approximately 115,000 tons. In contrast, blackberry exports are projected to rise by 8%, reaching between 80,000 and 85,000 tons, up from 77,000 tons.
Mexico’s berries aren’t just destined for the U.S, other key markets include Canada, Europe, Japan, and various Asian countries. Notably, blueberry shipments to Japan recently doubled, climbing from around 700–800 tons to approximately 1,600 tons.
Todd Greiner Farms Packing, LLC. (TGF) of Hart, MI, a leading grower/packer/shipper of Michigan produce, announces its 2025 sweet corn season. Shipment started the week of July 20th and peak volume expected the week of August 17th, just in time for Labor Day promotions.
This season, TGF will be offering premium bi-color sweet corn, commonly known as “butter and sugar” corn, celebrated for its vibrant color contrast and sweet, juicy flavor. With the company’s recent expansion into full-scale sales and marketing services, retail partners can expect enhanced support, consistent communication, and seamless order fulfillment.
“Todd Greiner Farms is excited to bring another season of high-quality Michigan sweet corn to our retail customers,” said Blake Hansen, National Sales Manager. “With our expanded sales team and marketing capabilities, we’re better positioned than ever to support retailers with a product that’s both a consumer favorite and a strong summer promotional driver.”
While TGF has long been recognized as a national leader in asparagus, Michigan’s reputation as an agricultural powerhouse extends well beyond. The state ranks second only to California in agricultural diversity, and is a top-10 producer of sweet corn, supporting strong seasonal supply programs for retailers nationwide.
According to Tastewise, sweet corn enjoys a long seasonal conversation with over 400,000 consumers engaging on the topic, peaking in both social media buzz and sales between May and October. Its versatility, nostalgic appeal, and summer-friendly preparation make it a reliable staple for produce departments throughout the season.
“We understand what sweet corn means to consumers in the summer months,” said Steve Rudat, Account and Supply Chain Manager. “It’s more than just produce—it’s tradition, backyard barbecues, and family memories. Our goal is to help retailers meet that demand with a high-quality product, shipped fresh and on time.”
Todd Greiner Farms Packing, LLC., located in Hart, MI, is a family-owned and operated fruit, vegetable, and evergreen grower/packer/shipper. Since its founding in 1994, TGF has maintained a reputation for quality and integrity, operating two packing/shipping facilities and holding a Primus Labs – Superior food safety rating. TGF’s diverse product offerings include asparagus, cherries, zucchini, sweet corn, peaches, hard squash, pumpkins, apples, and evergreens.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Fluctuante reports frozen Peruvian mangoes are regaining momentum after many producers shifted their focus to the fresh market last season. That trend may be be reversing in the 2024–25 season with 67,000 tons of frozen mango exported.”
Processing takes place in the same regions which grow fresh mangoes: Piura, Lambayeque, and Ancash.
Fluctuante notes when exporting frozen mango cubes or slices, you’re targeting a market that wants a ready-to-eat or easy-to-open product.
The main markets for Peruvian frozen mangoes are the United States, Canada, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Chile.
Because of oversupply and tariffs, the U.S. lemon industry experienced devastating price drops., but is now back to a more normal situation.
Interfresh of Orange, CA, reports prices have increased due to the tariffs issues being settled calming and fewer shippers. Interfresh noted at one point lemon f.o.b. prices were the lowest in 30 years.
With less competition there are fewer people selling lemons which is leading to higher prices. There also have been fewer lemon imports.
Imports from Argentina are now arriving, but more focus is being placed on markets such as Europe.
In March 2025, the U.S. implemented several rounds of tariffs, primarily targeting imports from Canada, Mexico and China. This had an impact on lemon exports.
The oversupply from California’s District 1 affected pricing, and the tariffs’ effect on exports exacerbated the issue. Plus, the decrease in U.S. lemon exports at the beginning of the year meant that the domestic market had to absorb a good amount of the supply.
Lemon supplies are now much tighter than in January and February. In the next three to four months, the greater demand and lower supply will lead to an increase in pricing.
KEYSTONE MARKETING
Keystone Fruit Marketing of Greencastle, PA has announced the launch of its inaugural Mexican lemon season.
As the exclusive marketer for this new program, Keystone is excited to offer high-quality lemons under its KFM Citrus label.
“This is a new and exciting chapter for us,” said Matthew Gideon, Sales and Commodity Manager at Keystone. “Our Mexico onion grower planted oranges and lemons a couple of years ago, and this season marks the first time our lemons are commercially viable. It’s a natural extension of our existing relationship, and we’re eager to build on our partnership moving forward.”
The program began in July and will run for approximately three months, with consistent weekly volumes expected throughout the season. Lemons will cross through South Texas and be distributed across the United States and Canada.
Initial production will start with 40-50 acres, with plans to expand to 100 acres by the 2026 summer season. Bulk cartons will be packed in Mexico, while a full lineup of consumer pack options will be available through Keystone’s third-party warehouse in South Texas.
Keystone Fruit Marketing is a division of Progressive Produce. Progressive Produce is a year-round grower/packer/shipper of fresh produce. We grow thousands of acres throughout North and South America of potatoes, onions, asparagus, citrus, and other fruits and vegetables and provide outstanding service 365 days a year.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
According to a report by IndexBox, the U.S. berries market will witness steady growth with a CAGR of 4% from 2024 to 2035. The raspberry and blackberry market has been experiencing growth for nine consecutive years, seeing 20% growth of $1.1 billion in 2020. The consumption peaked in 2020 and is expected to continue growing in the years to come.
In 2020, consumption of berries in the United States surged to 161,000 tons, growing by 31% compared with 2019. Revenue in the U.S. during that year also grew by 20% compared to the previous year.
The raspberry and blackberry market in the U.S. consists entirely of imported products; import prices have also increased sharply. However, despite the hike in price, the U.S. relies on foreign supplies due to insufficient domestic output.
According to the report, the U.S. will remain reliant on imports for at least the medium term.
Peruvian asparagus exports are showing a significant recovery due to better weather conditions boosting plant productivity and the implementation of corrective agronomic management, such as recovery fertilization and harvest rescheduling, according to Agraria.
The recovery of Peruvian asparagus has led to exports of 39,436 tons, a 42 percent increase over the previous year in May . This large Peruvian production has allowed it to cover destinations primarily in the United States and Europe.
While the year is looking favorable, 2025 could be even better for asparagus due to the Spanish season, which has been shortened by persistent rains, practically ending in May. This opened a window for Peru to obtain stronger prices that started in June.
Projections indicate that the Peruvian campaign could exceed previous year’s volumes by more than 30 percent.
The top destination for Peruvian asparagus is the U.S. and its high demand for this vegetable. In that country, annual consumption exceeds 300,000 tons, and local production barely covers between 10-15 percent of demand.
The United States’ main supplier is Mexico, which has managed to position itself in the conventional section and is developing the premium variety segment. In fact, the U.S. market shows a growing trend toward preference for the latter, which represents a challenge for Peru, whose supply remains concentrated in conventional varieties.
In Europe, the competition is different: major producing countries such as Spain, Italy, and Greece supply their domestic markets. However, consumer preference for asparagus year-round allows Peru to take advantage of being able to supply the market during the months when those countries are off production.
Even so, the margin for growth is more limited in this market, as the gap between production and demand is not as wide as in the United States, with only 15-20 percent of what they have to import from outside Europe. Peru’s strategy on this continent is to take advantage of periods of shortage in the European calendar.
As California pear farmers prepare to begin harvest of the nation’s first pears of the year, shippers expect a return to normal volume following last year’s short crop.
The California Pear Advisory Board met last week and established a pre-season crop estimate of 2.4 million 36-pound box equivalents for all pear varieties grown in the state. Last year’s 1.7 million package crop was the smallest crop in the past five years.
“We are excited to be able to offer retailers a full crop of pears in the coming season,” said Chris Zanobini, Executive Director of the California Pear Advisory Board. “Weather conditions have been optimal for producing excellent quality pears.”
The first pears from California are expected to begin harvest the last week of June in the River pear growing district with Sunsprite and Starkcrimson varieties.
“Bartletts are the main variety grown in California and they are the most popular with shoppers,” said
Zanobini.
California is expecting to harvest 1.6 million packages of Bartlett pears this season, which compares to 1.2 million packages that were harvested last season. Bartlett pears are also the preferred variety for processing and California growers expect to deliver 75,000 tons to the processing sector.
“The industry is expecting volume to be ideal for early-season retail promotions running from mid-July through October,” Zanobini emphasized. “As always, the California River pear growing district will be the first fresh pear of the year just as pears imported from South America are finishing. Retailers should plan to begin featuring fresh, new crop pears from California as soon as they are available in mid-July.”
Zanobini explained that Bartlett harvest in the River district started July 10, with harvest in the Lake and Mendocino counties beginning July 31.
Growers are also expecting good volume of Golden Russet Bosc pears this season as well along with a mix of other pear varieties including Bosc, Comice, Seckel, French Butter and red varieties.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
The Port of Oakland welcomed 2025 on a positive note, experiencing growth in both import and export volumes. In January 2025, loaded container volume reached 146,187 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units), marking an 8.5% increase from January 2024, which saw 144,405 TEUs.
“Strong import growth indicates the resilience of Northern California’s economy and reflects the confidence cargo owners have in our port,” stated Bryan Brandes, the Maritime Director of the Port of Oakland. “Export volumes remain steady, showcasing the ongoing global demand for U.S. agricultural and manufactured goods. This growth is a result of the dedicated efforts and collaboration among our labor force, terminal operators, and supply chain partners. We value their commitment and will continue to work together to enhance efficiency and expand capacity to better serve our customers.”
Loaded imports experienced a 13% increase, with 81,453 TEUs processed in January 2025, compared to 72,081 TEUs in January 2024. In contrast, loaded exports saw more modest growth at 3.4%, totaling 64,735 TEUs in January 2025, up from 62,596 TEUs the previous year.
Additionally, empty imports dropped significantly by 26.2%, with 12,625 TEUs departing the Port in January 2025 compared to 17,117 TEUs in January 2024. Conversely, empty exports rose by 19.8%, with the Port handling 34,363 TEUs this January, compared to 28,694 TEUs in January 2024.