An improved varietal offer, better transport links and an easying of US imports regulations augurs well for the upcoming season.

The recent decision of the USDA to modify its fumigation requirements for Argentina blueberries will create new opportunities for Argentine shippers by enabling them to supply a higher quality products to customers in the US. Up until June 2013, blueberries had to be treated with methil bromide against fly fruit, but following a request by Argentina, this was reduced.

Ines Pelaez, of the ABC says the rule change will also extend the self-life of the berries. Toghether with the new varieties being introduced by growers to expand their early season offering this will lead to a significant extension of Argentina´s marketing window.

Argentina embarked on a programme of varietal renewal some five years ago and new cultivars are now firmly stablished. According to Pelaez, trials are being carried out to several other varieties.

ABC´s members now makes up around 80% of Argentina´s total volume, “More frequent flights and improvements to road networks are also helping to improve qualit