53% increase in SA blueberry production for 2019/2020

South Africa’s blueberry production for 2019/2020 has increased 53% to 18 000t from 11 700t the previous season.

“Our projections for the year ahead indicate that blueberry production could reach 25 000t for the 2020/2021 season, a solid increase considering the impact of the [coronavirus disease] COVID-19 crisis,” Justin Mudge, chairperson of the South African Berry Producers’ Association (SABPA), said in a statement.

Production expectations in Limpopo and Mpumalanga were particularly good at 136% and 102% respectively by 2025, he said. “Earlier this month, we announced a new record in blueberry exports with 12 282t exported in 2019/2020. Read together with the production figures, the data shows that exports account for 68% of the industry’s production.”

This year’s planting season was already underway, and according to Mudge, it was expected that this year would be as productive as previous years, allowing the industry to extend its career and work opportunities for the local labour force.

“We understand that the economy is in a tough position with a staggering number of job losses. Nevertheless, we are grateful that we are able to continue with our operations. All our stakeholders are, of course, taking every precaution to protect the health and safety of our labour force.

“At least we can continue to attract export revenue, since global demand for our fruit remains high, especially among health-conscious consumers. The well-known immune-boosting properties of berries means that they are likely to remain in demand for the foreseeable future.” – Staff reporter