Online Reporter
Edgar Vhera
Specialist Writer-Agribusiness
IN a historic breakthrough for the horticulture sector, the country’s highly sought after blueberries can now be exported to China, following the signing of a new protocol between the two countries in Beijing recently.
Horticultural Development Council (HDC) chief executive, Mrs Linda Nielsen yesterday welcomed the agreement, which opens the door for local growers to expand into one of the world’s fastest-growing blueberry markets so long as they can meet the standards required.
China has assisted local producers of other crops to meet the strict health standards.
“This agreement is a milestone for Zimbabwe’s horticulture sector. What is needed now is collaboration to design policies that increase investment, boost production to meet required volumes and ensure that our blueberries meet China’s strict quality and phytosanitary standards,” she said.
The scale of exports to China will be guided by the new protocol’s sanitary and phytosanitary requirements and related compliance costs.
Zimbabwe is projected to produce 12 000 tonnes of blueberries this year, a 50 percent rise from 8 000 tonnes in 2024.
“With the right support, local growers can position the country as a reliable supplier to this important market.
“Zimbabwe can be the largest blueberry exporter in Africa, provided growers receive supportive policies that encourage investment,” the HDC boss said.
The blueberry deal builds on the avocado protocol signed in 2024 as well as the citrus trade protocol, reinforcing horticulture’s central role in Zimbabwe’s economic growth.
The sector’s ambition, under the Horticulture Recovery and Growth Plan, is to become a US$2 billion industry by 2030.
Driven by the trend towards healthy lifestyles, China’s blueberry imports have surged from just 665 tonnes in 2005 to nearly 39 000 tonnes in 2024, mainly sourced from Peru and Chile.
“The entry of Zimbabwean blueberries, known for their unique taste and texture, brings a new source of supply to that market,” Mrs Nielsen said.
Meanwhile, statistics from the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStat) show that US$2 705 009 was generated from berries exports from January to June this year compared to US$2 150 942 in 2024.
In volume terms, exports jumped 20 percent from 1 187 603kg to 1 420 169kg.
Celebrating the World Blueberry Day on July 8, Mrs Nielsen said while production and exports had grown over the years, it’s important to note that it was driven largely by improved yields from existing fields rather than a major expansion in hectarage.
“This highlights the need to accelerate policies that encourage investment in new planting.
“Looking to 2030, we are cautiously optimistic, our vision is to expand production area to 1 500 hectares from the current 650 in order to reach up to 30 000 tonnes in annual production,” she said.
Achieving this depended on how quickly current barriers to investment and growth were overcome.
“Some of the challenges to be addressed relate to issues of a supportive exchange rate policy, including a review of retention thresholds so as to improve farmer viability.
“Investment in infrastructure, especially in cold chain and logistics, would help our produce get to markets more efficiently,” she said.
Other cost drivers include utilities such as energy and water, which are negatively impacting viability.
Mrs Nielsen said proactive engagement with Government and relevant stakeholders was continuing on matters affecting the industry.
Zimbabwe offers unique climatic conditions that give berries a distinct advantage in size, flavour and texture. This makes them popular in many markets around the world.
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants. They are also low in calories and high in vitamins C and K making them a key part of a healthy diet.
Zimbabwe’s blueberry harvest season runs from May to October.
“Our early-season window gives local growers a competitive edge, allowing them to enter global markets ahead of other producers,” said Mrs Nielsen.
Currently, blueberries are being produced in several areas in the three Mashonaland provinces and Manicaland.
Overall, Zimbabwe has very good climate conditions for high-quality berry production.
“The bulk of Zimbabwe’s berries are currently airfreighted with producers always looking at the most viable routes to market,” added Mrs Nielsen.
Data extracted from TradeMap 2025 by the national trade development and promotion organisation of Zimbabwe (ZimTrade) shows that the country’s earnings from berries exports surged from US$11 million in 2020 to US$50 million last year.
In volume terms the exports rose 2 503 to 6 240 tonnes over the same period.
