This article is part of a series of content from the 2024 IBO Report that Italian Berry publishes in collaboration with International Blueberry Organization.
In 2023, global fresh blueberry production was approximately 1,302,000 metric tons (MT), representing a decrease of about 6% compared to 1,323,000 MT recorded in 2022.
Decline in the Americas
The Americas experienced a significant reduction in fresh blueberry production, dropping to 601,000 MT in 2023 from 672,000 MT in 2022, a decrease of about 11%. This drop was primarily driven by a significant reduction in South America’s production, which totaled 329,000 MT, down from 404,000 MT in 2022.
This sharp decline is attributable to adverse weather conditions, notably the El Niño phenomenon, which severely impacted yields in Peru. Despite these challenges, South America maintained its position as a major producer.
Mexico and Central America experienced a slight decline, producing 64,000 MT in 2023 compared to 75,000 MT in 2022. The United States and Canada, however, recorded a growth of about 8.3%.
China Drives Asia/Pacific Growth
The Asia/Pacific region showed strong growth in fresh blueberry production, increasing to 324,000 MT in 2023 from 297,000 MT in 2022, a rise of about 9%. Asia, led by significant contributions from China, continued to be a major driver of this growth.
The Pacific subregion also saw a slight increase, producing 24,000 MT.
Southern Europe and Africa Grow in 2023
The EMEA region (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) showed robust growth in 2023, with fresh blueberry production rising to 376,000 MT from 353,000 MT in 2022, an increase of about 6.5%.
Southern Europe and North Africa led this growth, with production reaching 164,000 MT. Production in Africa saw significant growth, contributing 44,000 MT.
Eastern Europe showed a modest increase, producing 131,000 MT compared to 134,000 MT in 2022.
Future Outlook
Against a backdrop of lower global production in 2023, the continued expansion of fresh blueberry consumption is encouraging. Established regions like Peru faced challenges, but emerging regions such as Africa and the Indian subcontinent are progressively contributing to the global market. This diversification and resilience in consumption patterns highlight the potential for future growth and stability in the blueberry industry.
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