IBO Summit 2025: A resounding success in South Africa, paving the way for sustainable blueberry growth
The International Blueberry Organization (IBO) proudly concluded the IBO Summit 2025 in South Africa, bringing together the global blueberry industry for three days of knowledge-sharing, networking, and collaboration.
This year’s Summit brought together 575 participants from 32 countries, including growers, exporters, importers, retailers, researchers, and industry leaders from across the world. The event highlighted South Africa’s and southern Africa’s growing role as a producer, key exporter, and strategic hub in the international blueberry market.
“Hosting the Summit in South Africa was an incredible opportunity to showcase our country’s progress and potential within the global blueberry industry,” said Brent Walsh, CEO of Berries ZA. "We’re proud to have welcomed so many international delegates and to have shared our commitment to quality, innovation, and collaboration."
A renewed IBO commitment to sustainable growth
Panels and presentations addressed key topics such as trade, sustainability, new genetics, market dynamics, logistics, and labor challenges, while exclusive field visits showcased South Africa’s production potential and innovative farming practices.
“South Africa offered the perfect setting to reflect on how far we’ve come as an industry—and how collaboration, innovation, objective and transparent discussions, and a shared purpose are shaping and will continue to shape the next chapter of sustainable growth,” said Mario Steta, IBO Chairman.
The IBO extends its sincere appreciation to its members, sponsors, speakers, and all attendees who contributed to making the Summit a success. Special thanks to our partners in South Africa and to the Minister of Agriculture for their warm hospitality and support in showcasing the region’s blueberry industry, allowing all participants to visualize South Africa’s status and strong potential as a country.
The IBO Summit continues to be the premier global gathering for the blueberry sector, fostering dialogue, collaboration, and growth across the value chain.
Plans are already underway for the next edition of the Summit, with four countries expressing their interest in hosting the event. The IBO views this strong level of enthusiasm as one of the clearest signs of how the blueberry sector continues to positively impact global production and market regions, and of the industry’s strong potential in the years ahead.
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