Blueberry industry sees global export growth amid South African climate challenges

Global fresh blueberry exports have grown by 154 per cent over the last seven years, now exceeding US$7.1 billion. According to the IBO Global Blueberry Report 2026, the fruit ranks among the top global exports, trailing only bananas, citrus, apples, table grapes, avocados, and kiwifruit. Growth is attributed to increased year-round availability and suitability for snacking, though high prices remain a constraint in some markets.

In South Africa, the blueberry industry is managing significant climate volatility. Despite historic flooding in the Western Cape in May and record-low rainfall in July, national export forecasts remain stable at approximately 25,000 metric tons. While some farms near mountain catchments experienced crop losses of over 70%, the impact has been largely localized. However, the industry faces rising operational hurdles, including infrastructure damage and a nearly 40 per cent increase in local fuel costs affecting logistics.