In a remarkable turn of events, Zimbabwe has surged to become the world leader in the growth rate of blueberry exports, a sector once overshadowed by the nation’s notorious hyperinflation and economic challenges. This development is a testament to Zimbabwe’s enduring agricultural potential and its ability to revitalize an industry against the odds.
Experts from EastFruit have highlighted an investment boom in Zimbabwe’s blueberry industry. With the allure of favorable climatic conditions, abundant high-quality water, and affordable labor, investors—primarily from neighboring South Africa—are establishing new plantations. These investors bring with them a wealth of experience in cultivating blueberries under similar climatic conditions, ensuring high productivity and product quality.
Zimbabwe’s blueberry exports have been accelerating at an unparalleled pace. Over the past five years, exports have increased by an average of 63% per year. In 2022 alone, exports surged by 85%, reaching over 5,000 tons and positioning Zimbabwe within the top 15 blueberry exporting countries, surpassing Serbia. Andrij Yarmak, an economist at the investment department of the Food and Agriculture Ministry of the UN, has noted this impressive growth.
The forecast for 2023 looks even brighter, with expectations of a 30-40% increase in exports, potentially reaching up to 7,000 tons. With high blueberry prices due to a poor harvest in Peru, Zimbabwe’s economy stands to gain significantly from these exports.
A considerable portion of Zimbabwe’s blueberries are sent to South Africa, which may be facilitating further re-exports. Additionally, the country is directly exporting to lucrative markets in the UK, the EU, the Middle East, and Russia.
When it comes to blueberry love, the United States reigns supreme, gobbling up a staggering 120,000 tonnes annually. But their northern neighbors in Canada aren’t far behind, averaging a whopping 12 kg per person! Rounding out the top five are Germany, Poland, and the Netherlands, each indulging in their share of these delicious superfruits.
While countries like the UK and Spain enjoy a respectable blueberry habit, it’s Sweden and Belgium, with their lower individual consumption but larger populations, that sneak into the top ten. So, whether you’re a blueberry fanatic or just a casual admirer, it’s clear that these tiny blue wonders have captured the hearts (and stomachs) of people around the world.
It is not just Zimbabwe experiencing this uptick. Georgia is also witnessing rapid growth in blueberry exports, with a notable average annual increase of 50%. In 2023, Georgian blueberry exports have more than doubled, reaching 3.4 thousand tons. Interestingly, a portion of these exports includes blueberries originally cultivated in Ukraine, now being re-exported by Georgian traders.
Ukraine, while leading in the rate of expansion of blueberry farming areas, trails slightly behind Georgia in export growth rates. Nevertheless, Ukrainian blueberry exports have seen a sharp increase in 2023, fueled in part by a reduced local market size due to population displacement from ongoing military conflict.
Zimbabwe’s ascent in the global blueberry market reflects a broader trend of agricultural investment and diversification in the African region. This shift not only boosts the local economy but also contributes to the stability and growth of global food supplies, demonstrating the resilience and potential of emerging economies in the agricultural sector.
Source: East Fruit