However, several producing regions continue to face quality issues, climatic pressure, and logistical constraints affecting pricing and shelf life across international markets.
Europe faces weather-related quality challenges
The Moroccan and Spanish blueberry seasons have been heavily impacted by persistent rainfall, affecting fruit quality and shelf life. In the Netherlands, market operators report softer fruit, higher levels of split berries, and reduced firmness compared with normal seasons.
In Spain, harvests from Huelva remain delayed due to adverse winter weather conditions, limiting early-season supply to the European market. Despite reduced volumes, prices have remained above last year’s levels.
Consumption continues to grow in Italy and France
In Italy, blueberry consumption continues to strengthen, with demand becoming increasingly seasonal between February and September. Current supply mainly originates from Sicily and Calabria, while additional production regions are expected to enter harvest in the coming weeks.
France’s 2026 season is also starting early, with production volumes expected to remain stable or slightly above 2025 levels. Favorable spring conditions are supporting expectations for good fruit quality.
North American supply gradually improves
Blueberry availability in North America is strengthening as more domestic growing regions come into production, particularly in California, Georgia, and Mexico. However, overall volumes remain slightly below last year’s levels due to earlier weather disruptions.
Demand is described as moderate to strong, while the industry continues to focus on varieties offering improved firmness, shelf life, flavour, and eating quality.
South Africa and Egypt face logistical constraints
In South Africa, prices remain elevated due to limited availability, although volumes are expected to increase in the coming weeks. Flooding in certain regions may still affect future supply levels later in the season.
In Egypt, market growth continues to be constrained by high airfreight costs and cold-chain challenges. Despite these limitations, blueberry sales are expected to rise significantly this year, supported by growing consumer awareness and stronger demand.
Latin America continues its premium expansion strategy
Peru, Mexico, Colombia, and Chile are further strengthening their global market positions through premium varietal development and quality-focused production strategies. Japan is emerging as a particularly strong growth market for Mexican blueberry exports.
In Chile, the premium segment continues to expand rapidly, particularly in Europe and North America, where demand for high-quality fruit remains strong.
Outlook: climate remains a key factor for global supply
The global blueberry market continues to be highly sensitive to weather conditions and logistical disruptions. While improving supply is supporting market availability, fruit quality and shelf life remain major challenges across several origins.
In the coming months, weather developments and the expansion of new production regions will play a key role in shaping global market balance.