Blueberry is becoming increasingly popular among fruit growers in Serbia thanks to its high price and stable demand, as well as the possibility of export. However, with falling prices, the question arises as to who will survive in the market. New blueberry plantations are springing up across the country, and farmers are investing in modernizing growing technology, including irrigation systems and fruit quality control. Serbia has ideal agro-climatic conditions for blueberry cultivation, which contributed to its spread. However, blueberry is a demanding plant, and constant research and application of innovations in agriculture are needed to meet market demands.
One of the main challenges that Serbian producers are now facing is the drop in blueberry export prices. The market is saturated during the season, and global competition is high – Poland, Spain, the Netherlands, and increasingly China, are investing in blueberry production. In 2023, Morocco became the fifth largest supplier of fresh blueberries to Southeast Asian countries, increasing its export volume by 3.3 times from 2019 to date.
The situation on the world blueberry market shows a growing demand, especially in the countries of the European Union, the USA and China. However, the demands of customers and retail chains are becoming more and more complex, and consumers expect high quality, freshness and durability of fruits. Special attention is paid to the method of cultivation – there is an increasing demand for organic blueberries, as well as for fruit that is certified according to various international standards.
So, here is why the blueberry is on the rise in our country
Retail chains have strict criteria when it comes to storing and transporting blueberries so that the final product arrives fresh on the supermarket shelves. Is blueberry growing in Serbia still promising? Although the current drop in export prices may seem discouraging, the prospect of this production still exists. The key to success lies in adapting to new market conditions and requirements. Producers should focus on raising quality, adopting sustainable cultivation technologies, and improving post-harvest technology to preserve fruit freshness during transportation.
Additionally, market diversification can be one of the solutions. Researching new export destinations and direct marketing to consumers through online channels can enable better prices and a more stable market. Also, the association of producers into cooperatives can significantly improve bargaining power and facilitate access to foreign markets. Blueberry exports from Serbia in 2023 amounted to slightly more than 33 million euros. After the signing of the agreement with China, domestic producers have a chance to make more profit from this fruit by placing it on one of the largest markets in the world without customs duty.
The basis of every production is the variety. Duke will continue to be the leading variety in our commercial plantings. There are several reasons for this – after harvesting, it stays fresh for a long time and is well transported. At the same time, in full fertility, the average yield per bush can be six kilograms. However, care should be taken where this variety is planted because it is sensitive to a lack of moisture, both in the soil and in the air. Research centers could provide complete information for which regions and production technology are suitable varieties Blukrop, Patriot, Aurora and Liberty.
With proper management and strategic investments, blueberry cultivation can remain a profitable and promising business in Serbia. Quality, innovation and adaptability to the market will be the key factors that will determine the success of fruit growers in the future.
Source: 24 Seven
Source: boljazemlja.com
