Zimbabwe’s blueberry production is expected to reach 12 000 tonnes this year as farmers capitalise on expanding export opportunities in China, Europe and Asia.
In a statement yesterday, Permanent Secretary in the the Ministry of Agriculture, Mechanisation and Water Resources Development , Professor Obert Jiri, said the country had emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing blueberry producers, driven by rising international demand and improved access to lucrative export markets.
“Zimbabwe is now one of the world’s fastest-growing blueberry producers. This comes after a new tariff-free deal with China and growing demand in Europe and Asia,” Prof Jiri said.
He said production was projected to reach 12 000 tonnes this year as established farms expanded their operations and more producers entered the sector.
“Production is set to hit 12 000 tons this year. Farms are scaling up, and smallholder farmers are being brought into the value chain,” he said.
The expansion of blueberry production is expected to strengthen Zimbabwe’s horticulture exports while creating opportunities for farmers, agro-processors, logistics companies and other players across the agricultural value chain.
“The inclusion of smallholder farmers is also expected to broaden participation in the export-oriented horticulture sector, enabling rural producers to benefit from growing international demand.
The expanding sector presented an opportunity for Zimbabwe to strengthen its position in high-value agricultural exports and deepen its participation in global value chains,”Professor Jiri added
The developments come as the Government continues to promote agricultural diversification and value addition as part of efforts to increase exports, generate foreign currency and create employment.
Zimbabwe’s growing presence in international blueberry markets could also help diversify the country’s agricultural export basket, traditionally dominated by products such as tobacco and horticultural commodities.
