SA blueberry production soars on back of demand
SOUTH Africa’s blueberry production for 2019/20 increased to 18 000 tons from 11 700 the previous year.
This impressive growth in production of 53% is testament to the growing investment in, and the demand for South African blueberries.
Our projections for the year ahead indicate that blueberry production could reach 25 000 tons for the 2020/21 season, a solid increase considering the impact of the Covid-19 crisis.
Earlier this month, the South African Berry Producers’ Association announced a new record in blueberry exports, with 12 282 tons exported in 2019/20.
Agriculture and food supply sectors have been deemed essential services during the lockdown in response to Covid-19. This is allowing farmers to stay on schedule with the planting season, Thabi Ndhlovu of the association, said.
This year’s blueberry planting season is already under way.
The association understands that the economy is in a tough position, with a staggering number of job losses. The response of the government with a R500 billion relief package is unprecedented and desperately needed.
“The resilience of the agricultural sector during this pandemic is a crucial part of keeping the economy alive. In this industry at least, we can continue to attract export revenue into the country 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,” Ndhlovu said. |