Bumper harvest for Chile’s blueberry

Chile is experiencing a bumper blueberry harvest this year, but, nevertheless, expects to see a drop in exports next campaign. The high temperatures in the north of the country have led to higher production and exports by Week 40 totalled 174 tons, almost triple the 64 tons exported at the same point in 2017. These numbers have been greatly helped by the resumption of shipments to North America, where 82 tons have been sent. Organic production accounts for 38% of total exports.

Next year might not be such a good one for Chile’s blueberry sector, with exports expected to fall by up to 7% in 2018-2019, according experts from the sector. To counter the potential drop in exports, Chile’s Blueberry Committee has taken several initiatives, such as the incorporation of new varieties, improvements in product quality, and the development of new processed products.