Global blueberry production could grow by another 1 million tons by 2030 or shortly afterward as the industry continues to expand. However, industry leaders say increased production alone will not guarantee profitability, making improved genetics, higher yields and more efficient harvesting increasingly important.
Cort Brazelton, co-owner and board member of Fall Creek, discussed the industry’s outlook at Fruit Attraction 2026 in Madrid. According to the 2026 International Blueberry Organization report, worldwide blueberry production reached 2.33 million tons in 2025, an 11.2% increase from the previous year.
The continued growth reflects expanding production around the world, but it also raises questions about how growers can remain competitive as more fruit enters the global market.
Global Blueberry Production Continues to Expand
The potential for another 1 million tons of blueberries by 2030 highlights the pace of growth across the industry. As new plantings mature and production increases, growers will need to focus on more than simply expanding acreage.
Brazelton noted that much of the recent production growth is coming from young orchards reaching maturity rather than significant improvements in yields.
That distinction is important as the industry considers its next phase of development. Increasing the number of producing acres can raise total output, but long-term competitiveness will depend on how efficiently growers produce and move fruit to market.
Genetics and Efficiency Key to Future Profitability
Brazelton identified several areas that could help blueberry growers strengthen their position as global supplies increase. Better genetics, higher yields, improved harvest efficiency and stronger logistics will all play a role in the industry’s future.
Improved genetics could help growers develop more productive varieties suited to different growing conditions and market demands. Higher yields would allow producers to get more fruit from existing acreage, while better harvest efficiency could help manage labor and operating costs.
Logistics will also remain important as blueberries move through the supply chain. Maintaining fruit quality and getting product to buyers efficiently can influence returns, particularly as production expands and competition increases.
The outlook points to an important challenge for the blueberry industry: balancing continued growth with the efficiency needed to remain profitable. As global production moves toward potentially reaching another 1 million tons, growers will need to focus on productivity, quality and the ability to compete in an expanding market.
Listen to the accompanying report for more on the global blueberry production outlook and the factors expected to shape the industry’s future.