US blueberry shipments up, French sector invests in innovation, demand soft in Europe
US blueberry shipments through mid-July 2026 were higher than last year, while French growers are focusing on sector modernization. Despite lower harvests, demand for blueberries in key European markets is reported as weak.
The United States recorded increased fresh blueberry shipments through mid-July 2026 compared to the same period in 2025. Georgia's 2026 season ended with shipments approximately 19 percent higher than in 2025, supported by dry weather and reduced disease pressure. In contrast, Florida's early-season shipments dropped by 56 percent year-on-year due to winter freezes, significantly limiting early US supply. Harvests in the Pacific Northwest (Washington, Oregon) started in mid-June and were stronger than last year, with favorable growing conditions and lower pest pressure supporting volume. More than 90 percent of US fresh blueberry shipments occur between April and August, making this peak supply period crucial for exports to Europe and other markets.
The French blueberry sector is intensifying efforts to modernize and improve competitiveness. In July, the French Blueberry Growers Association (APMF) organized technical seminars focusing on varietal renewal, adaptation to climate change, and innovative cultivation techniques, including soilless production. The sector is seeking to accelerate the transfer of international expertise and expand production skills, aiming for greater efficiency and openness to exports. These initiatives coincide with the mid-harvest period in France and are expected to support the long-term supply potential for domestic and export markets.
Despite lower volumes due to adverse weather in several European producing countries, demand for blueberries has been reported as subdued in major European markets. Producers note that, despite the evident drop in harvest volumes, the anticipated strong increase in prices has not materialized. Market participants cite both reduced consumer purchasing power and shifts in buying behavior as possible factors behind weaker demand. This trend is observed both domestically within producing countries and on key export markets across Europe.
As a result of these market conditions, Poland, as a major importer and re-exporter of blueberries, is facing increased competition from both domestic and international suppliers, especially from the US and Western European countries. Current wholesale prices for blueberries in Poland, converted to EUR, range from €3.5–€6.0/kg for bulk fruit and €3.7–€4.0 per 250g pack (€15.0–€16.0/kg), reflecting the influence of supply and demand trends in the broader European market.
The US blueberry supply in summer 2026 was shaped by regional weather events: Florida yields were sharply reduced by winter storms, while Georgia and the Pacific Northwest reported strong harvests due to favorable conditions. These shifts in US availability may affect export volumes to Europe and add to competitive pressures for European producers.
Material prepared by the editorial team of fresh-market.info, editor Artur Spiker · Illustrative image generated by AI