Peru launches large-scale blueberry exports as European suppliers finish season

Peru has started its first commercial blueberry harvest at the new Piscu farm, with exports expected to increase as Serbia and Portugal end their seasons and Romania remains active.

The Peruvian company Vanguard Group International began its inaugural commercial blueberry harvest at the Piscu farm in Pisco province in June 2026. The initial phase covers 550 hectares, with another 900 hectares reserved for future expansion. The harvest is expected to continue through late December, with the window projected to widen to mid-May–early February in future years as plantings mature.

The Piscu farm’s first varieties—Apex (FCM14-057), MegaEarly, MegaCrisp, and MegaGem—are all premium, early-season types. Over 60–70% of berries reach at least 18 mm in diameter, with Apex averaging 20.8 mm. Yields for Apex exceed 20 metric tons per hectare. Early shipments in late June are airfreighted to Asian markets, while exports to the US and Europe are planned as the season progresses.

On the European market, Serbia and Portugal have nearly finished their 2026 blueberry seasons. Romania continues to export, but its production is affected by high temperatures, potentially reducing export volumes and impacting supply to buyers in the EU, including Poland.

New genetics were showcased at Fall Creek’s research farm in Oregon, with the FC11-164 and Sekoya Nova FC15-173 varieties designed for high-chill growing regions, including Northern Europe. FC11-164 is notable as a machine-harvestable fresh-market variety with high firmness and storability, while Sekoya Nova produces large fruit, with about 80% exceeding 18 mm.

Export prices for blueberries in early July in Poland were reported above €4.6/kg (20 PLN/kg), with potential declines to €2.3–2.8/kg (10–12 PLN/kg) expected at peak season, depending on supply from European and overseas exporters. Rising production costs in Europe, exceeding €3.5/kg (15 PLN/kg), are also influencing market dynamics.

In February 2026, Peru ranked among the top five exporters of table grapes and has diversified into blueberries, avocados, cherries, apples, kiwifruit, mangos, citrus, and stone fruit, expanding its share in global fruit exports.

Material prepared by the editorial team of fresh-market.info, editor Artur Spiker