Peruvian blueberries still on EU shelves in August at almost €23/kg

Blueberries from Peru and Zimbabwe were still present in retail in mid-August, during the European harvest peak. Peruvian fruit seen in stores carried a 10 June packing date and was offered at almost €23.2/kg.

Imports from long-distance origins remained visible in Central European retail in July and August despite the peak of the local blueberry season. Blueberries from Peru and Zimbabwe were reported on shelves, while Peruvian cartons still displayed a 10 June packing date as of 17 August.

The retail price gap was wide. Imported South American blueberries were offered at almost €23.2/kg, compared with Polish domestic fruit quoted on the wholesale market at €4.6-5.8/kg. The imported fruit was therefore several times more expensive than nearby seasonal supply.

The presence of Peruvian and Zimbabwean fruit in summer indicates that part of the import programme was arranged through longer supply chains while European production was already available. The sources reported that some imported fruit had remained in logistics and retail channels for weeks.

Spain remains a major supplier base for European buyers, including Central and Eastern Europe. In 2025, Spanish fresh fruit and vegetable exports reached 12 million tonnes worth €18.666 billion; export volume fell by 4%, while value rose by 4%. European markets accounted for 97% of Spain’s fresh produce exports.

In Huelva, one of Spain’s main berry regions, Onubafruit closed the 2024/25 campaign with turnover of about €310 million. The group markets berries and other fruit and vegetables, and its member farms include strawberry and blueberry production, with some growers investing in hydroponic systems.

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