The Evolution of the Chinese Blueberry Market in 2023
By
| 25 January 2024
2023 unfolded as a unique chapter in the evolution of the Chinese blueberry sector. Shifts in supply and meteorological factors brought about notable changes in the import and export dynamics, shaping a distinct narrative for the year.
Imports
During the summer season, the Chinese market traditionally experiences a scarcity of high-quality blueberries.
Peruvian blueberries become available in China from July to August, constituting the lion’s share of summer imports. In addition to importing blueberries from Peru and Chile, China sources a limited volume during the summer through air freight from the U.S., particularly from Washington and Oregon. In contrast to the general increasing trend observed from 2016 to 2022, there was a significant decline in the total import volume from 42,846 tons in 2022 to 29,587 tons in 2023, with total imports dropping to 2021 levels. Chile and Peru emerged as the primary contributors in 2023, having sent 4.53 and 2.5 tonnes to China, respectively. There was a 30% decline in imports from Peru due to meteorological challenges caused by the El Niño phenomenon. While sporadic contributions were noted from countries such as the US, Canada, Netherlands, Mexico, Korea (DPRK), Uruguay, and Zambia over the years, their involvement diminished in 2023.
Due to the lower volumes, import prices trended high, with prices climbing to $10.5 per kg in December 2023, 65% higher than the previous year.
China Fresh Import Volume By Partner | Cultivated Conventional
China Fresh Import Price History | Cultivated Conventional
China Fresh Import Price By Partner | Cultivated Conventional
Exports
The export landscape in 2023 witnessed an explosive growth. In May, export volumes saw an eleven-fold increase compared to the export figures recorded in May 2022. Hong Kong and Singapore stood out as pivotal export destinations. Peak export activity, observed in April and May, registered total volumes of up to 210,211 tons and 225,084 tons, respectively. Russia, Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong showcased robust demand during this period. From July onward, export volume gradually receded owing to the shift in seasonality.
China Fresh Export Volume By Partner | Cultivated Conventional
China Fresh Export Volume History | Cultivated Conventional
The highest average monthly export price was observed in March, reaching $12.06 per kg, which was over 2 times higher than the average price recorded in March 2022. Instances of heightened export activity were concurrent with elevated export prices, attributable to heightened demand from international markets. Conversely, September witnessed the lowest export price in 2023, at $3.65 per kilogram. This coincided with the year’s lowest export volumes, indicative of subdued demand and potential supply constraints.
China Fresh Export Price History | Cultivated Conventional
The influx of international players and breeding companies into the Chinese blueberry market, exemplified by NPS’s substantial growth from virtually zero hectares in November 2020 to approximately 1300 hectares within three years, showcases the dynamic landscape of the industry. In response to mounting concerns related to oversupply within mainland China, prominent distributors such as Driscoll’s and Joyvio have implemented structured export programs. These programs function as strategic measures to mitigate risks associated with oversupply in the domestic market, ensuring the maintenance of premium pricing and the exploration of new markets. Expansion in blueberry cultivation and substantial capital investments have played a pivotal role in fostering innovation and driving continuous growth in the market.
Written by: Sarah Ilyas
