Full implementation of the new market access for blueberries from British Columbia expected in 2027
Canadian blueberries have secured market access to the Philippines, marking the latest breakthrough in the sector’s export diversification efforts.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) announced that fresh blueberries from British Columbia can now be exported to the Philippines on 28 July.
The CFIA worked with the government of the Philippines to develop export requirements that can be met by the British Columbia blueberry industry. To export fresh blueberries from Canada to the Philippines, growers and packing facilities must be registered with the CFIA and have a phytosanitary certificate. To qualify, exporters must meet the Philippines’ plant health requirements, and the blueberries must be inspected by the CFIA prior to export, confirming that it is free from soil and pests, and packed in new or clean containers.
A pilot program will be implemented in 2026, starting with exports from a previously identified production field and packing house. Full implementation is anticipated for 2027, at which time all production fields and packing houses in British Columbia will be eligible to register to export blueberries to the Philippines.
New market access to the Philippines is a significant win for British Columbia’s blueberry growers. It opens the door to one of Asia’s fastest-growing consumer markets and reflects the strength of Canada’s food safety and plant health systems. On behalf of our growers, we thank the CFIA for the work behind this achievement, and we look forward to bringing the quality and freshness of BC blueberries to consumers in the Philippines,” said Sudeshna Nambiar, executive director of British Columbia Blueberry Council.
In 2024, Canada exported more than C$695mn worth of blueberries. Blueberries alone accounted for two-thirds of all the money Canada made from fruit exports that year.
“The growing demand for Canadian products both at home and abroad stands as a testament to the hard work and dedication of our farmers and food producers. Our government is committed to supporting all producers and exporters as they pursue new markets while continuing to succeed at home,” said Heath MacDonald, Canada’s minister of agriculture and agri-food.
