Online Reporter
Judith Phiri
ZIMBABWE is cashing in big time as its blueberries turn into blue gold, flooding overseas markets and leaving the world drooling for more.
From Singapore to Europe and the UK, the sweet little berries are fast becoming a global sensation — and they’re minted right here at home.
Trade promotion body ZimTrade could not hide its excitement after announcing the Asian island nation of Singapore as the latest country to stock Zimbabwean blueberries in leading outlets.
“Figures show that Zimbabwe’s blueberry exports grew by 85 percent from US$6,3 million in 2021 to US$11,7 million in 2022, despite a 1 percent decline in global trade of the product,” said ZimTrade boss Allan Majuru.
Thanks to Zimbabwe’s sunny climate and early harvesting, local farmers are outpacing rivals and muscling into high-paying markets.
And the money trail is mouthwatering — blueberry exports have shot up by a staggering 351 percent in just four years, from US$11 million in 2020 to more than US$50 million in 2024. Export volumes doubled too, from 2 503 tonnes to a juicy 6 240 tonnes.
Majuru said government support has been the secret sauce, with dams, irrigation and new infrastructure giving farmers the tools to grow fortunes.
“The Second Republic has pushed for policies that support the horticulture sector, making it more attractive and profitable for local farmers,” he added.
With global demand soaring, Zimbabwe’s blueberries are becoming a money-spinning export darling making farmers berry, berry rich!
