Many Latin American countries like Peru are aiming to increase the exports of their organic fruits. One major fruit category is blueberry which is gaining tremendous export potential in Asian countries. Peru’s current organic blueberry campaign projects significant rebound in exports driven by entry into new markets specifically China.
One of the major players Agualima is consolidating its position in the organic blueberry segment, as the existing outlook for avocado is complicated by oversupply and pressure from international competitors. Agualima forecasts closing the 2025 season with almost 5 million kg of organic blueberry exports, exceeding the 4 million recorded in 2024. This projection responds to a strategy focused on differentiation by quality and certifications, which allows it to serve markets with high standards such as Europe. Unlike other producers that use pots, Agualima grows blueberry in soil, a condition required to access European organic certification.
In line with this positioning strategy, the company has just obtained the first organic certification in Peru to export blueberries to China. Juan Enrique Pendavis, Agualima’s Commercial Director is optimistic that China will follow similar growth path as Europe and the US when it comes to organic blueberry exports.
Blueberry consumption in China is enjoying steady growth annually, and although China has its own domestic production, preference for quality fruit is driving interest in the Peruvian product. Despite the organic blueberry enjoying solid demand, its prices are still tied to the conventional market. “No matter how organic you are, if the price of conventional falls, organic can’t stay disconnected,” Pendavis added. However, organic blueberry offers a sweeter, crispier and better eating experience which could eventually lead to more premium pricing.
Not only that, organic blueberry also faces greater challenges in terms of logistics, climate changes and labor shortages which could impact its final cost to consumer.
