US blueberries are now cleared for the South African market
Through a press release, the North American Blueberry Council (NABC) celebrated South Africa's authorization for the import of US blueberries from all 50 states.
“After years of stalled progress, we thank the Trump administration for prioritizing this request and finally getting the South African market open for US fresh blueberries,” said NABC Council President Kasey Cronquist.
The executive also thanked the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service for its role in the process, and for "securing a science-based and practical work plan for blueberry growers and packers.”
A deal 10 years in the making
The industry organization noted that the South African blueberry market has changed since the original access request a decade ago, with regional competition from key suppliers such as Morocco and Zimbabwe gaining traction in the country.
Cronquist emphasized that timely market access is of the utmost importance to provide better opportunities for US growers, and despite the shifting tide, he remains optimistic about the future of US blueberry exports.
“We believe strongly in the importance of open, science-based trade and will continue working to expand and strengthen global market access for US blueberry growers,” Cronquist said.
US blueberries set for the East
The North American Blueberry Council is currently working to secure expanded access to South Korea, as well as new access to Australia and New Zealand.
“We appreciate the ongoing efforts of USDA and the United States Trade Representative on these priorities, and we’re hopeful that, under the Trump administration, we can open these new markets and create profitable opportunities for US blueberry growers,” Cronquist said.
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