Zimbabwe has claimed the top spot as the world’s leading exporter of blueberries, a recent report by EastFruit unveils.
The study underscores a remarkable 63% annual growth in blueberry exports from Zimbabwe, totalling 1,200 tonnes over the last five years. The surge is attributed to substantial investments in blueberry farming, predominantly driven by South African investors who capitalize on favourable climatic conditions, access to high-quality irrigation water, and cost-effective labour in Zimbabwe.
Notably, the report indicates an influx of investments from various countries, contributing to the establishment of new blueberry plantations. In 2022 alone, exports soared by 85%, surpassing 5,000 tonnes, elevating Zimbabwe into the top 15 global blueberry-exporting nations, surpassing Serbia in volume, as reported by Andrij Yarmak, an economist at the investment department of the Food and Agriculture Ministry UN organizations (FAO).
EastFruit’s experts foresee a continued growth trajectory in Zimbabwe’s blueberry exports for 2023, projecting a substantial 30-40% increase to reach an impressive 6.5-7.0 thousand tonnes. The elevated prices for blueberries, driven by a poor harvest in Peru, position Zimbabwe favourably for substantial gains in the upcoming season.
A significant portion of Zimbabwe’s blueberries is found in South Africa, likely for subsequent re-exports. Additionally, the country directly supplies fresh blueberries to the UK, EU, Middle East countries, and Russia.
Zimbabwe’s ascendancy in the blueberry export market showcases the nation’s agricultural prowess and highlights the strategic advantage of its geographical and climatic conditions, making it a formidable player on the global stage for this sought-after berry.
