New blueberry varieties—characterized by greater firmness, larger size, extended postharvest life, and high adaptability to diverse climates—have become a strategic factor in strengthening the competitiveness of exporting countries.
This topic will be explored in depth by Simón Muñoz, international advisor in blueberry production at Consultora Agrícola y Comercial Santa María (CASM Blueberries), during his presentation at the 2nd International Specialization Course on Blueberry Production, organized by CASM Blueberries.
The event will take place from March 17 to 19, 2026, in Lima, Peru, and will include two technical sessions at the Sheraton Lima Hotel, as well as a Field Day at Qali Fruit, a subsidiary of Agrícola Cerro Prieto.
According to Muñoz, one of the most relevant aspects of his presentation will be linking varietal development with market evolution. “The most interesting point we will present is that, while we will discuss varieties and how they adapt to different regions, it is essential to cross-reference this information with the development of markets and the industries that will begin supplying them in the future. We will analyze the growth of emerging industries, where new investments are being made, and which countries could lead this second blueberry boom,” he noted.
The advisor emphasized that several breeding programs are steadily advancing in the search for varieties that are increasingly attractive to both producers and consumers.
“Fall Creek is doing very good work with the Sekoya® platform. Meanwhile, Costa is developing interesting proposals with its varieties in Australia. Each breeding company has its own particularities, but all are aiming for the same parameters: high yield, long postharvest life, firmness, and good size.”
From this common foundation, strategic differentiations emerge. “In Australia, for example, the high cost of labor has driven the development of varieties suitable for mechanical harvesting. Costa is very focused on creating varieties that enable mechanized harvesting, since picking by hand is very expensive in that country,” Muñoz explained.
Peru: Leadership Driven by Premium Varieties
Over the years, new genetics have taken the lead in the sector, displacing traditional varieties such as Biloxi and Ventura.
“Varieties such as Sekoya Pop® ‘FCM14-052’ and OzBlu Mágica are leading the way. Within the Sekoya® program, Sekoya Beauty® ‘FCM12-097’ is also beginning to stand out, offering outstanding quality,” the advisor noted.
Muñoz added that there are also varieties that are not necessarily premium but are delivering very positive results.
Beyond firmness or size, the specialist emphasized a decisive factor for producer profitability: uniformity. “What matters is product consistency—that is, ensuring that a very high percentage of the harvested fruit meets these parameters. That is why Sekoya Pop® ‘FCM14-052’ is so attractive.”
Innovation to Address Climate Change
Genetic progress is also complemented by new agronomic strategies to address the challenges of climate change.
“There are various tools we are using to tackle it, such as biostimulants and amino acid precursors. These products help strengthen the plants’ self-defense mechanisms or immune system,” he concluded.
Simón Muñoz will be one of the speakers at the 2nd International Specialization Course on Blueberry Production ¡Secure your spot at one of the most important events in the industry!
To purchase your ticket, contact:
Agustina Martínez: +569 7934 1964
