Rising demand in Japan puts focus on Peruvian blueberry access

Japan is showing stronger demand for blueberries as interest in healthy foods rises, according to the Peruvian Exporters Association (ADEX). Global blueberry imports reached US$7.35 billion in 2024, up 30% from 2023. The main importers were the U.S., the Netherlands, Germany, the U.K., Canada, China, Spain, and Hong Kong. Japan ranked 26th with a 6% increase, sourcing mainly from the U.S., Mexico, Chile, Canada, and China.

Although Peru is the world’s top blueberry exporter (≈35% market share), it still cannot ship to Japan because the phytosanitary protocol is pending. Senasa is negotiating access with Japanese authorities, and ADEX is organizing a Japanese delegation visit to production and packing facilities in Ica to support the process.

Peru currently works with about 65 blueberry varieties, including new types developed for longer shelf life and better tolerance to long-distance transport. So far this year, Bolivia and Indonesia have opened to Peruvian blueberries; negotiations are ongoing with Vietnam and New Zealand.

source: agraria.pe

photo: peru.info