Egypt says yes to Peruvian blueberries

Egypt has given the green light to imports of fresh Peruvian blueberries, becoming the 76^th market to open for the Andean nation.

The news comes at a crucial juncture for Peru’s blueberry industry as output continues to climb and efforts to find new consumers and markets intensify. Exports climbed from 10,200 tonnes in 2015 to 373,500 tonnes in 2025, according to government figures. The value of shipments in 2025 exceeded US$2.457bn, consolidating the fruit’s position as one of the star products in Peru’s agricultural export basket. Today, Peru has more than 20,000 hectares certified for export.

With 120mn inhabitants, Egypt represents a major opportunity for Peruvian exports due to its size and strategic location. Egypt serves as a key gateway to markets in North Africa and the Middle East, regions where South American fresh fruit exports still have considerable room for growth.

Expanding into these markets would relieve pressure on traditional markets like the US, Europe, and China.

The reality is that despite having access to 76 markets worldwide, blueberry exports are concentrated amongst a relatively small number of countries. The US remains by far the main destination, followed by the Netherlands, China, the UK, and Hong Kong. Together, these five markets account for more than 90 per cent of Peruvian shipments, according to official data.

This high concentration means that any variation in demand, prices, or trade conditions in these destinations can have significant repercussions for the entire export chain.

Peru’s blueberry production base is also highly concentrated. La Libertad accounts for approximately 53 per cent of the country’s export volume, followed by Lambayeque, with around 22 per cent, and Ica with around 10 per cent. The remaining exports come mainly from Lima, Áncash, and Piura.

This production map has been evolving as new genetics allow growers to adapt production to different agro-climatic conditions and extend the harvest window.