Chile blueberry exports: fresh shipments set to rise 1% in 2026/27 despite El Niño and frozen trade

Chile’s fresh blueberry export estimate for the 2026/27 season has been revised down by 3% from September’s projection. Exports are still expected to edge up 1% year on year, while frozen shipments remain broadly in line with 2025.

El Niño remains the primary concern for the 2026/27 season. So far, production and exports have generally navigated its effects favorably, with only minor regional adjustments.

As of October 28, Chile’s total fresh blueberry export volume is estimated at 94,071 tons, 3% below the structural estimate made in September 2026. Despite the adjustment, the projected volume would represent a 1% increase in total fresh fruit exports compared with the previous season. The estimate will be reviewed as the season progresses and adjusted if necessary.

Fresh blueberry shipments

In week 43 (October 19–25), Chile shipped 127 tons of fresh blueberries, 33% less than in the same week last season. Cumulative exports reached 429 tons, down 28%, due to delays in the early production zones.

Renewal varieties currently account for 87% of shipments, totaling 373 tons, down 15%.

Asia received 373 tons, representing an 87% share and a 34% decrease. Korea led the region with 357 tons, down 28%, while shipments to the USA reached 56 tons, up 113%. The first organic shipments totaled 14 tons, all destined for North America.

Valparaíso leads in the origin of the first shipments, with a 60% share, followed by Coquimbo at 39%.

Frozen blueberry exports

Frozen blueberry exports reached 59,881 tons between January and September 2026, broadly in line with the same period in 2025, down 0.3%. Organic frozen blueberries accounted for 24% of the total. The main markets were the USA (33%), Asia (27%) and Oceania (16%).

Full-year frozen blueberry exports are expected to reach approximately 70,000 tons. This trend is not expected to reverse in 2027, particularly as this season’s climatic conditions could favor a greater share of fruit being directed to processing for frozen products, an established marketing alternative.