Blueberries from Zimbabwe can now be exported to China for the first time, following the signing of a new protocol between the two countries in Beijing on Thursday, 4 September.
The Horticultural Development Council (HDC) has welcomed the development, saying it creates new opportunities for local growers to tap into one of the world’s fastest-growing blueberry markets. HDC Chief Executive Officer, Linda Nielsen, said:
“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.
“With the right support, our Zimbabwean growers can position the country as a reliable supplier to this important market.”
Zimbabwe is projected to produce 12,000 tonnes of blueberries in 2025, up from 8,000 tonnes in 2024.
The scale of exports to China will depend on meeting the sanitary and phytosanitary requirements set out in the new protocol signed this week, as well as the associated compliance costs.
Agricultural experts say Zimbabwe has the potential to position itself as the largest blueberry exporter in Africa if growers are supported by policies that encourage greater investment.
The agreement builds on the avocado protocol signed in 2024 and reinforces the growing importance of horticulture to Zimbabwe’s economic growth.
The sector is working towards the ambitious target of becoming a US$2 billion industry under the Horticulture Recovery and Growth Plan.
Demand in China continues to rise sharply, fuelled by the global trend towards healthier lifestyles. Chinese blueberry imports have increased from just 665 tonnes in 2005 to nearly 39,000 tonnes in 2024, mainly from Peru and Chile.
The entry of Zimbabwean blueberries, praised for their distinctive taste and texture, will add a new source of supply to this expanding market.
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