“In summer in Russia there are local blueberries, as well as the so-called wild blueberries (bilberries) which are distinguished by their dark colour. Therefore, until recently we weren’t importing a lot of blueberries,” remarked Alexander Rodriguez, procurement manager of the company Baltfruıt.
Depending on the season, the country sending the blueberries changes. “In summer the main export country is Belarus. In the past blueberries were also imported from Spain, Portugal, Holland, and Poland but now because of the sanctions this is not possible. In autumn and winter the main blueberry export countries are: Peru, Chile, Uruguay, Argentina, Mexico and Morocco,” says Alexander.
“At the moment the majority of blueberries on the Russian market are from Peru, Argentina and Uruguay. The blueberry season in Uruguay starts in September and continues to January. The blueberry season from Chile starts a month later, roughly from October to March. Every year the yield and volume of supply from Uruguay increases.”
“The price of blueberries is lower in the summer season than in the winter. In summer the price for a box (1.5kg) is around $5-8. The price of blueberries from South American countries at the start of autumn-winter is between $14-17, taking into account transport costs the price rises to $23-30 a box. Previously we brought blueberries directly from South America to Moscow, now we are considering shipping via Rotterdam to reduce costs. Of course, this increases the delivery time to 10 days, but is likely to be more profitable," says Alexander.
According to Alexander, blueberries in Russia remain a rather expensive berry. Not all Russians can afford to indulge themselves with this tasty and healthy berry all year round.
