Poland, a major European blueberry exporter, begins its harvest in July, following Spain's market exit. The country's blueberry production has expanded, with cultivated areas increasing from 5,800 hectares in 2018 to 11,900 hectares by 2022. Current annual production estimates range between 60,000 and 68,000 tons, positioning Poland among the top five global producers.
Average yields in Poland are approximately 5.7 tons per hectare, which is below the global average. This indicates potential for yield enhancement through improved cultivars and practices. The industry predominantly comprises small-scale farms, averaging 1.4 hectares, which impacts industrialization and export efficiency.
Traditionally, a key European exporter, Poland supplies markets such as Germany, the UK, and Scandinavia. However, domestic consumption is increasing, and Poland is importing off-season blueberries, reducing net exports. A notable portion of exports includes re-exported Ukrainian blueberries, although Ukrainian producers increasingly prefer direct exports.
In 2022/2023, Poland's blueberry trade balance turned slightly negative, with imports surpassing exports by €6.4 million. Rising domestic demand and year-round consumption are driving Poland towards becoming a net importer, sourcing from countries like Spain, Morocco, Peru, and South Africa in the off-season.
Despite remaining a key exporter in July-August, challenges persist. Weather issues and global price pressures affect yields and margins. Rising production costs and labor shortages necessitate efficiency improvements and varietal upgrades. Mechanization is increasingly important as labor costs rise and availability declines.
By 2030, Poland's industry may stabilize, with potential production reaching 70,000+ tons. However, a larger share may be consumed domestically. Poland's export percentage is expected to decrease, with declining re-exports of Ukrainian blueberries contributing to this trend. Although Polish blueberries gained access to China in 2023, this market is unlikely to significantly impact exports due to China's own production growth.
Source: EastFruit