Colombian blueberry exports increased by 387% in 2020

Blueberry was one of the most outstanding products of Colombian agriculture in 2020, registering a growth of 387% over the previous year with international sales of 1,228,958 dollars, according to data from ProColombia.

Source: Fresh Plaza

“The United States continued to be the largest international buyer during 2020 with $ 854,873 between January and October. However, we are optimistic about our first exports to Russia, Qatar, Costa Rica, El Salvador, and Guatemala,” stated Flavia Santoro, the president of ProColombia.

The country currently has nearly 500 hectares planted with blueberries, mainly in the Cundiboyacense region, and it is projected that it will reach 5,000 hectares in 7 to 10 years, according to the Colombian Association of Blueberry Growers, Asocolblue. According to data from ProColombia, the region has all the potential to achieve this thanks to its light and airy soils that have an acidic pH of 4.5 and 5.5, and low salinity. In addition, they are located at a height that allows optimal luminosity. Furthermore, they have access to good quality water that facilitates the development of the crop.

The departments of Cundinamarca and Boyaca offer the necessary climatic conditions required by blueberries for their adaptation and adequate growth, especially the cold hours they need. The climatic variability between day and night is a competitive advantage since it allows the fruit to achieve a better flavor and texture, ProColombia stated.