Zimbabwe’s Aspiration to Become a Leading Blueberry Exporter
Zimbabwe aims to boost its blueberry exports significantly, with plans to triple production by 2030. The industry currently exports about 5,500 tonnes, with growth primarily driven by existing plant maturation. Future targets include entry into Indian and Chinese markets, backed by a proposed investment of US$240 million to enhance production capacity and address infrastructural challenges.
Zimbabwe is positioning itself as a significant player in the global blueberry market, drawing inspiration from its recent success in exporting avocados to China. The blueberry sector, which is poised for notable expansion, is projected to export approximately 5,500 tonnes in the current year. Although this figure accounts for less than 20 percent of what South Africa exports, leaders in the industry express confidence in its growth potential in the upcoming years. According to Linda Nielson, Chief Executive of the Horticultural Development Council, Zimbabwe aims to triple its blueberry production by the year 2030. The journey began with initial experimental plantings in 2008, launching onto the world stage with commercial exports in 2017. Nielson highlighted that by 2023, production had reached 5,500 tonnes, establishing Zimbabwe as the fastest-growing blueberry producer globally, with expectations of increasing output to 8,000 tonnes this year. The anticipated growth will stem largely from the maturation of existing plants and increased yields, rather than the establishment of new cultivations, reflecting ongoing funding challenges faced by the sector. If successful in expanding acreage from the current 570 hectares to 1,500 hectares by 2030, production could reach 30,000 tonnes, generating revenue similar to the peak levels of Zimbabwe’s horticulture exports in the late 1990s. This ambitious target will necessitate substantial investment, estimated at US$240 million. Presently, Zimbabwean blueberries are funneled into European markets via the Netherlands, which acts as a key distribution point for fresh produce. The next major milestones for the industry involve entering the Indian and Chinese markets, for which the Horticultural Development Council is pursuing a phytosanitary agreement. The country’s unique climate contributes to distinctive blueberry characteristics, enhancing their appeal to high-end markets. Additionally, Zimbabwe’s harvest window from May to October provides a competitive edge, allowing entrance into global markets before many competitors. With a literate workforce adept at rapidly adopting new technologies, Zimbabwe possesses a strong agricultural legacy and logistical frameworks that ensure optimal delivery of its produce to international markets. Nielson remarked that government-supported extension services and trade partnerships also provide significant advantages. However, the industry grapples with policy-related challenges including land tenure security, infrastructural deficiencies, high utility costs, and unfavorable exchange rates. To address these issues, collaborative efforts with the Zimbabwe Investment Development Authority are underway to create special economic zones with sector-specific incentives, including tax breaks to attract investment. The high energy expenses also present opportunities for investments in renewable energy for irrigation and cold chain systems.
Zimbabwe’s horticulture sector is experiencing a significant transformation, particularly in the blueberry industry, spurred by the recent success of the country’s avocado exports to China. This shift marks a pivotal moment for Zimbabwe as it seeks to diversify its agricultural exports and capitalize on favorable climatic conditions that enhance the quality of its blueberries. The industry is relatively young, having only started commercial exports in 2017, yet it has quickly gained recognition as the fastest-growing blueberry producer globally. The government’s strategic vision aims to expand production notably over the next decade, addressing both the challenges and opportunities present in the market.
In summary, Zimbabwe is ambitiously pursuing growth within its blueberry sector, leveraging its climatic advantages and recent successes in horticultural exports. With targets set for substantial increases in production and market diversification towards India and China, the industry is positioned for rapid development. However, realizing these ambitions will require overcoming substantial policy and funding challenges. Strategic investment in cultivation and infrastructure could potentially restore Zimbabwe to its past horticultural export peak, positioning it as a significant player in the global market.
Original Source: www.fruitnet.com
Post Comment