- Zimbabwe’s new phytosanitary protocol with China enables blueberry exports, opening access to one of the world’s fastest-growing markets
- Zimbabwe’s blueberry production is projected to reach 12,000 metric tons in 2025
- Compared to South Africa’s established 22,500-ton export industry, Zimbabwe’s emerging sector competes with early harvests
Harare- Zimbabwe has secured a significant opportunity to export blueberries to China following the signing of a phytosanitary protocol during President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s recent visit to China, according to the Horticultural Development Council (HDC).
This agreement, finalised during a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping to commemorate 80 years since Japan’s defeat in World War II, establishes the sanitary and phytosanitary standards that will govern Zimbabwe’s blueberry exports to China.
The HDC emphasised that the protocol’s requirements and associated compliance costs will determine the volume of exports, marking a pivotal step for Zimbabwean growers to access one of the world’s most rapidly expanding blueberry markets.
The global blueberry market is experiencing robust growth, projected to reach USD 5.60 billion by 2033 with a CAGR of 7.77%, driven by rising health consciousness and demand for antioxidant-rich superfoods.
In China, the world’s largest blueberry producer, output surged to 780,000 metric tons in 2024, a 197% increase from 2020, fuelled by advanced planting technologies and evergreen varieties that extend fruiting periods.
In 2025, China’s cultivation area is expected to expand to 1.55 million mu, with production reaching 897,400 tons.
Despite this, China remains a leading importer, with imports peaking at USD 306.7 million in 2022 but declining to USD 260.3 million in 2023 as domestic supply grew.
Peru and Chile dominate China’s import market, accounting for over 99% of imports, benefiting from free trade agreements and counter-seasonal supply, particularly during the Chinese New Year peak in January and February.
China’s export market is also growing, with 2,314 tons exported in the first eight months of 2024, up from 1,012 tons in 2023, reflecting the industry’s shift toward quality and premium pricing.
In contrast, South Africa’s blueberry exports, primarily from the Western Cape, reached 22,500 tons in the 2024/2025 season, a 7% increase from the previous year, despite frost reducing potential volumes by 2,500–3,000 tons.
The United Kingdom and Europe remain the largest markets, receiving 2,040.6 and 1,271 tons respectively, though exports to the Middle and Far East grew by 31.1% and 39%.
South Africa’s season, peaking from August to September, benefits from early harvests in northern regions like Limpopo, but faces challenges from Peru’s dominant supply, which creates periods of oversupply and price pressure, particularly for late-season Western Cape growers.
The industry, led by companies like Berryworld South Africa and United Exports, is expanding through new varieties and geographic diversification, aiming for year-round production. However, logistical issues, such as port delays and sea freight risks, impact reliability.
Within the Southern African Development Community (SADC), South Africa leads blueberry exports, while Zimbabwe’s emerging industry benefits from similar early-season advantages due to its climate.
Both countries face competition from Peru, which exported 323,928 tons globally in 2024/2025, dwarfing regional outputs. Zimbabwe’s entry into China’s market could challenge South Africa’s Far East exports, particularly as China’s domestic production grows and import reliance decreases.
For Zimbabwe, blueberries contribute significantly to horticulture, generating jobs and foreign exchange, with the sector supporting rural economies and infrastructure. South Africa’s more established industry employs thousands and drives innovation, but Zimbabwe’s growth, if financing and policy constraints are addressed, could position it as a rising competitor.
The key for both nations lies in quality, timely market access, and navigating global supply dynamics dominated by Peru and Chile.
Equity Axis News
