IBO Summit makes African debut with big hopes for South African industry
For the first time, the International Blueberry Organization (IBO) Summit will be held in Africa, specifically in South Africa, at the Cape Town International Convention Centre from September 25 to 27, 2025, generating high expectations among blueberry industry members.
The local industry, organized by Berries ZA, is eager to bring the world to South Africa and showcase what it can do, as well as the optimal conditions it enjoys for growing blueberries.
Elzette Schutte, Operations Manager of Berries ZA, said they expect a top-notch event in Cape Town, featuring engaging keynote speakers and approximately 600 attendees, of whom around 100 will be international visitors.
"The event will take place during the middle of our season, and it is a good opportunity to show the world how we operate," she said.
Opportunities for local growers
The event will focus not only on South Africa itself, but also on other countries in the region, with speakers from Namibia and Zimbabwe.
During the two-day conference, global blueberry issues will be addressed. After two days, there will be four farm visit options.
"We will visit four farms with four packhouses, and we will show what precision farming is, and the amount of detail that goes into our operation, because we are proud of it and we want to show it," Schutte said.
Additionally, she believes it is time to take the Summit to a new level, and a part of this will include a strategic session on what the IBO is doing and where it is headed.
"We don't just want to be this little organization, because we are trying to elevate the meaning of blueberries for the world," she assured.
Not a trade show: A meeting point
Schutte emphasized that the event is not only a trade show, but an opportunity for industry members to gather, discuss, and see the potential of South Africa.
"It's not only what it can do for our industry, but what it can do for the world, because growers can learn from what we do and the challenges we face," she said.
It is not settled yet, but the event will probably take place every two years, according to Schutte.
The IBO enables growers to understand their place on the global stage.
"We really hope everyone leaves the event excited, understanding where South Africa fits in the global picture," Schutte concluded.
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