Blueberry industry sees rising Peruvian supply and U.S. program renewal

The blueberry industry is undergoing significant shifts in supply and regulatory structure. In the United States, producers and importers have voted to continue the Blueberry Promotion, Research and Information Order. According to the USDA, 58% of voters—representing 84% of the total volume—approved the continuation of the program during a referendum held in July 2026. Administered by the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the program focuses on generic promotion, consumer information, and research to increase blueberry consumption domestically and internationally.

Simultaneously, the global supply landscape is transitioning. As U.S. domestic production declines, Peruvian blueberry volumes are increasing. In week 33, Peru shipped approximately 12,000 metric tons, a significant increase from the 8,000 metric tons shipped during the same week last year. This growth is attributed to earlier-producing varieties and younger fields. However, industry experts note that while warmer conditions have advanced the Peruvian crop, sustained heat could impact fruit quality, size, and shelf life. There are also concerns that El Niño-related conditions might cause supply to tighten unexpectedly between December and January.