Market Trends
Global Production Projections
3k
2k
1k
0
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
2026
Years
Sum
Americas
Asia/Pacific
EMEA
Source: IBO and Agronometrics
We are beginning to see a wider push to promote blueberries in domestic markets, with Poland standing out as an example.
of which produced less compared to the previous season. The challenges didn’t stop at in- creased volumes and pricing pres- sures. Rising production costs have put margins under significant strain. 2022 saw substantial increases in overall input costs, including labor costs rising between 20-30%. Non- harvest costs also soared, increasing by an astonishing 50-100%. Despite these challenges, there are early signs of costs beginning to stabilize, offering producers some relief. We are beginning to see a wider push to promote blueberries in do- mestic markets, with Poland stand- ing out as an example. There’s also an increasing emphasis on field effi - ciency and productivity, leading to a swift transition to newer, high-per- formance blueberry varieties. This move supports a larger industry trend: the continuous quest for quali- ty. Updated varietal choices, such as those promoted by the Peruvian growers’ association, ProArandanos, underscore the industry’s dedication.
Its focus isn’t just on raising volumes but also on phasing out older variet- ies in favor of those that offer superi - or cultivation and market reception. Globally, discerning consumers have shown a willingness to pay more for quality fruit, setting the stage for industry shifts. Recent advancements highlight blueberries’ health benefits. Studies show they can reduce cognitive decline in older adults, improve car- diovascular health and assist those with gastrointestinal disorders. Blueberries are also linked to a 5% lower risk of mortality. Research in 2023 will further explore their effects on child learning, muscle protein synthesis and potential benefits for hearing disorders. They remain vital in nutritional research, emphasizing their broad health benefits. Emerging trends like the adoption of machine harvesting continue to influence the industry, though opin - ions on its effectiveness vary. The report also delves into the impor- tance of environmental, social and
governance (ESG) factors in blueber - ry production and distribution. Our forecasts predict the blueber- ry industry will keep growing. With insights from projections across 117 production regions and the use of ma- chine learning algorithms, this ap- proach captures the unique situations of each area. Through this method, we anticipate the industry will grow to 2,800,000 metric tons by 2026. Blueberries, known for their health benefits, are more than just a tasty snack; they contribute signifi - cantly to global well-being. As the industry progresses, it offers oppor - tunities for producers, suppliers and consumers. Download the full report for free from the International Blueberry Organization’s (IBO) website. At 227 pages, it provides the insights needed to understand crucial geographies and the nuances driving the blueber- ry industry. • Colin Fain is a co-author of the 2023 IBO Global State of the Blueberry Industry Report.
26 Vision Magazine
October/November 2023
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