Colombia is experiencing a decisive phase in the development of its blueberry agroindustry. In recent years, the country has embarked on a rapid expansion path, supported by new investments, expanded acreage and increasing openness to international markets.
Outlooks for the 2025–2026 biennium point to a sector undergoing full transformation, with figures attracting the attention of global producers, exporters and investors.
A strategic fruit for Colombian agro-exports
The blueberry has established itself globally as one of the small fruits with the highest commercial potential. Global demand is rising, driven by health trends and growing interest in fresh, nutritious foods available year-round.
In this scenario, Colombia holds a particularly interesting position: the sector is still young but is recording significant growth both in cultivated area and export volumes. This dynamic opens new opportunities across the entire value chain, from primary production to support services, logistics and export.
According to data from the Instituto Colombiano Agropecuario (ICA), there are currently more than 250 producers involved in blueberry cultivation in Colombia. By 2025, an estimated 600 hectares will be cultivated, with projections indicating further expansion in the coming years.
This figure is particularly significant considering that, until a few years ago, blueberries represented a marginal crop within the national agricultural landscape. The increase in acreage reflects growing confidence in the economic potential of the sector.
Exports accelerating sharply: +609% expected by 2026
Export figures confirm the shift in momentum. In 2024, Colombia exported 628,235 kg of blueberries, generating more than 3.3 million dollars (around 3 million euros) in revenue.
A notable result for a sector still in the consolidation phase. Prospects are even more ambitious. According to projections by the Unidad de Planificación Rural Agropecuaria (UPRA), by 2026 export value could exceed 10 million dollars (approximately 9.2 million euros), with an estimated growth of +609% compared to current levels.
Data from ProColombia also confirm the positive trend: between January and August 2024, blueberry exports increased by 305% compared to the same period the previous year. For a young market, this is a clear signal: Colombia is laying the foundations to carve out a place in the global small fruit market.
One of Colombia’s most relevant assets lies in its agroclimatic conditions. Blueberries can be grown at altitudes above 2,000 meters above sea level, enabling potentially active production for 52 weeks a year. This represents a strategic advantage over countries with marked seasonality.
Territorial diversification
In addition to the traditional areas of Bogotá and Boyacá, regions such as Antioquia, Cauca, Eje Cafetero and Nariño offer favorable conditions for expansion. Currently, according to industry data, Antioquia, Cundinamarca and Boyacá are among the most active departments.
Geographical distribution makes it possible to:
- reduce climate risk,
- schedule production throughout the year,
- leverage different altitude levels.
Market access and sanitary standards
The work carried out by ICA has enabled the opening of new international markets and strengthened compliance with phytosanitary and quality standards, an essential prerequisite for export competitiveness. Growth is not without challenges. Access to international markets requires good agricultural practices, certifications, phytosanitary control and regulatory compliance. Institutional support remains crucial to assist producers, particularly small and medium-sized operators.
Blueberry cultivation involves investments in technology, technical training and postharvest management. Logistics and the cold chain are key elements to maintain product quality for export markets. Colombia operates within a Latin American context already dominated by major berry exporters. Quality, supply continuity and cost competitiveness will be decisive factors. Overly rapid expansion could create imbalances: oversupply, pressure on water resources, or infrastructural and logistical bottlenecks. Planning and governance will be central to ensuring balanced development.
Where opportunities are concentrated
For investors and value chain operators, the sector offers several development areas:
- New production plantings, especially in areas with suitable altitude and strong logistical connections.
- Technical and agronomic services, supply of specialized inputs, postharvest management, packaging and certifications.
- Logistics and export, with potential toward the United States, Europe, Asia and other markets.
- Innovation and segmentation, focusing on sustainability, traceability, innovative packaging and premium or organic niches.
A look toward 2026: a strategic window to enter the sector
Colombia’s blueberry agroindustry is undergoing a phase of accelerated expansion, supported by favorable climatic conditions, trade openness and growing global demand.
To consolidate this trajectory, targeted investments, adequate infrastructure, technical training and strict compliance with international standards will be required.
The 2025–2026 biennium represents a strategic window: those entering the sector today can position themselves in a market with strong growth prospects, scalability and integration into global small fruit trade flows.
Source: Maria Antonia Eusse Paulo on LinkedIn
Image source: Adobe
