China world's largest blueberry producer

China world's largest blueberry producer

In 2021, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) surpassed the United States as the world’s largest blueberry producer. Blueberries are planted in 26 of China’s 34 provinces. Meanwhile, China is also the world’s leading importer of blueberries. Imported blueberries in China are mainly from Peru and Chile, which account for over 99.9 percent of China’s total imports. The consumption of blueberries is expected to grow steadily in the coming years. Exporters are encouraged to take note of consumer expectations for flavor, size, color, and brix content.

According to data issued by International Blueberry Organization, global blueberry planted area reached 235,400 hectares in 2021, with a total of production of 1.79 million tons. China became the top producerin the world with 69,036 hectares of growing area, followed by the United States, Chile, Peru, and Canada. China is also the world’s leading importer of blueberries. China imported 29,597 tons of blueberries in 2021, mainly from Peru and Chile. U.S. fresh blueberries gained market access to China in May 2020.

Blueberries are not a traditionally consumed fruit in China, however, a higher standard of living and an increased awareness of the health benefits from consuming fruit, have led more consumers to seek out new fruits, such as blueberries. Consumers tend to consume blueberries fresh; however, they are also consumed in dried snack foods, such as a snack mixture of other dried fruits and tree nuts, or as a standalone snack product. Fresh blueberries for direct consumption are cultivated based on their brix level (sugar content) and skin composition. Chinese consumers tend to prefer larger blueberries with relatively higher brix levels, a good appearance, firm texture, and longer shelf-life.

Source:  USDA