Industry calls for collaboration and transparency to avoid erosion in profitability as volumes bounce back
The recovery in Peruvian blueberry production in 2024/25 will require stronger collaboration between suppliers and retailers to maintain profitability as volumes rise, according to a leading industry figure.
A return to more stable temperatures this year following last year’s El Niño-related weather disruption heralds an improved productive landscape.
According to Fresh Fruit Peru, crops have shown more normalised growth rates throughout all regions of the country and progress since the start of the campaign in May has been more stable.
“Shipments for the 2024/25 season to the end of September totalled about 82,200 tonnes for a value of US$661mn. This represents a growth of 23 per cent in volume and 16 per cent in value,” the consultancy said.
In a post on LinkedIn, Jose Antonio Gomez, former CEO of Camposol, said: “After months of high prices, we are now facing a market with record volumes and significant challenges ahead until February 2025. It’s crucial to be cautious in choosing markets, channels, and customers.
“Collaborating with major supermarket chains is key. A well-planned promotion can fill the shelves and offer attractive prices that encourage consumption. Otherwise, we risk flooding the wholesale market, which could drive prices down and seriously impact our producers.”
Gomez continued: “The key to maintaining the value of agricultural work lies in accurate harvest projections, transparency in numbers, and responsible commercial management. The market is ready to absorb these volumes if we plan accordingly and set speculation aside.
“I invite everyone—producers, importers, distributors, and supermarkets—to engage in open and proactive conversations. Together, we can protect the value generated by the hard work of our farmers and the sustainable use of our natural resources.”
