Low demand for Peruvian and Zimbabwean blueberries in Europe amid local season

Blueberries from Peru and Zimbabwe remain unsold for weeks on European retail shelves in July and August, with import prices approaching €23.2/kg, far exceeding the price of local fruit.

During July and August 2026, European supermarkets, including major chains, have continued to stock blueberries imported from Peru and Zimbabwe, despite the peak of the local harvest in the EU. Imported blueberries observed on shelves in mid-August were packed as early as June 10, indicating over two months in the supply chain before reaching consumers. The extended logistics chain has resulted in reduced freshness and limited consumer interest, with imported blueberries remaining unsold for weeks.

Wholesale and retail prices for Peruvian blueberries in Europe during this period have reached nearly €23.2/kg (100 PLN/kg), while locally produced berries are four to five times cheaper, at approximately €4.6–5.8/kg. This significant price difference has contributed to weak demand for imported blueberries, as consumers increasingly prefer fresher and more competitively priced local products.

Despite the high price and low demand, imports of blueberries from South America continue to occupy shelf space in several European markets. This has led to reduced purchases of local blueberries by some major retail chains, particularly in countries such as the Netherlands, which acts as a distribution hub for imported produce. The presence of non-European blueberries during the EU harvest peak has temporarily displaced local supply in retail channels.

The situation has implications for Polish imports, as supermarkets in Poland have also been observed offering Peruvian blueberries at the same high price level, even as the domestic harvest is at its freshest and most abundant. This has increased competition for local producers and contributed to price pressure in the wholesale market.

In July and August, the overall availability of imported blueberries from Peru and Zimbabwe in Europe remains high due to established supply contracts, but with consumer demand shifting to fresher, cheaper European fruit, unsold stock and potential waste are increasing.

Material prepared by the editorial team of fresh-market.info, editor Artur Spiker · Illustrative image generated by AI