Each month, the team led by international blueberry advisor Sebastián Ochoa prepares a high-level technical report focused on a country that plays a strategic role in the global blueberry industry. These reports are designed for growers and key stakeholders across the production chain, providing a global and strategic perspective on major markets and industry trends.
On this occasion, CASM Blueberries presents its fourth technical report, titled “China Accelerates the Consolidation of Its Blueberry Industry: Production Expansion, Physiological Challenges, and Quality Differentiation,” which examines how the country is rapidly advancing in the development and professionalization of its blueberry sector.
China is currently entering a stage of market maturity, where factors such as fruit quality, the adoption of new genetics, and production efficiency are becoming key determinants of grower competitiveness.
With a population exceeding 1.4 billion people, China has established itself as one of the world’s most important markets for healthy food consumption. Numerous studies conducted since 2015 have shown that blueberry consumption contributes to cognitive development, encouraging both public policies and private-sector initiatives aimed at promoting the production and consumption of this fruit.
In this context, China’s blueberry industry continues to strengthen its position as a key player on the global stage. The country’s main production region is Yunnan Province, located in the south, which is recognized for its ability to produce high-quality early-season fruit. In contrast, northern regions such as Shandong, Liaoning, and Jilin concentrate production later in the season.
In this report, the CASM Blueberries technical team analyzes the impact of high temperatures on pollination and fruit quality, quality differentiation strategies, the gap between traditional genetics and new varieties, and the main phytosanitary challenges facing the industry.
