The country's blueberry export earnings reached US$3.8 million in the first half of 2026 as production expands and access to the Chinese market creates new opportunities
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Photo source: Sasha Ostapiuk / iStock
Zimbabwe's blueberry export earnings increased by 76 per cent year on year to US$3.8 million in the first six months of 2026. Export volumes more than doubled to 1.9 million kilogrammes, compared with 900,000 kilogrammes during the same period in 2025, reports The Herald, a partner of TV BRICS.
The country's blueberry sector has continued to expand in recent years. According to the June 2026 update, Zimbabwe had around 650 hectares under blueberry cultivation in 2025. Production is expected to reach approximately 800 hectares this year, with exports projected at 11,500 tonnes and revenue estimated at US$51.75 million.
A key development for the sector has been Zimbabwe's access to the Chinese market. Following the completion of the relevant export protocol, local blueberry producers can supply China subject to phytosanitary and food safety requirements covering pest management, traceability, orchard registration, inspections and export certification. The new market is expected to broaden export opportunities and support demand for Zimbabwean fruit from the 2026 season.
Zimbabwe's blueberry harvesting period runs from mid-March to the end of October, while exports generally take place from May to October, with shipments peaking around September. This production calendar enables growers to serve different market segments and strengthens the country's position in international fruit trade.
The development follows the expansion of Zimbabwe-China agricultural cooperation. The two countries signed a citrus trade protocol in 2022, an avocado protocol in 2024 and a blueberry export protocol in 2025. China has since become Zimbabwe's third-largest export market, while bilateral trade has more than doubled over the past decade.
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