Representing a 7% decline from the October forecast, the Chilean Blueberry Committee of ASOEX now forecasts exports of 76,500 tons of fresh blueberries in the 2023-24 season.
The Chilean Blueberry Committee of ASOEX said in a news release that the new figure reflects a decrease of 7% compared to the first estimate made in October, and a decrease of 13% from 2022-23, according to a news release.
“This new forecast takes into consideration the effect of the rains during the first two weeks of November, as well as other associated climatic events such as frost and hail,” Andrés Armstrong, executive director of the Chilean Blueberry Committee, said in the release.
Armstrong added that the fruit is developing and progressing similarly to previous seasons, as are weekly exports.
“We’re seeing a pattern similar to the average of recent seasons, which will generate an initial peak of more than 5,000 tons in week 49. Meanwhile, the period of highest volumes, with up to 8,000 tons weekly, will occur between weeks 51-2023 and 03-2024,” he said.
Newly planted varieties comprise 20% of the planted area, and Chilean industry leaders expect that will increase in coming years, Armstrong said in the release.
Industry leaders are focused on renewing varieties and generating more efficient production management and logistical services, Armstrong said.
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Armstrong says that, by mid-November, exports of fresh blueberries are 18% greater than last season, and “the inclusion of new varieties and strong decrease of non-recommended varieties are dominating our exports.”
Air shipments are leading growth, Armstrong said.
“Air shipments have led exports to date with 1,422 tons and a growth of 170% compared to the same period last season,” he said. “Maritime shipments are starting to increase, reaching 495 tons, which is 56% less than what was shipped during the same period last season.”
