Georgian Blueberry Producers Association and Wonderland Farmers Ink 800-Ton Export Deal at Fruit Attraction 2023 in Madrid
During the Fruit Attraction 2023 exhibition in Madrid, the "Georgian Blueberry Producers Association" inked a memorandum of understanding with "Wonderland Farmers". Under this agreement, 800 tons of Georgian blueberries are set to be exported to the European Union. The association announced this development on their Facebook page, and its chairman, Tornike Panjavidze, verified the news.
"This memorandum holds significant importance as it marks our inaugural effort to send such a sizable shipment of blueberries to the European Union. Last year, the association dispatched a test batch of 36 tons to the EU, which greatly pleased the buyers. Consequently, we have committed to delivering 800 tons to designated buyers over the next two years," commented Panjavidze.
Panjavidze further emphasized that this figure doesn't represent the full extent of their planned exports. The association is poised to cater to consumers from various EU nations in the upcoming season.
"While the memorandum specifically cites 800 tons, we also have arrangements with additional buyers, particularly in the German and Polish markets. There's potential to not only achieve the 800-ton target next season but to increase the volume to 1,500 tons or even more," elaborated Panjavidze.
When questioned about the preparedness of Georgian farmers, Panjavidze responded confidently, highlighting that around 20 member firms of the association are equipped to fulfill the EU's blueberry demand in both volume and quality.
"We boast a membership of around 20 firms, who together cultivate over 1000 hectares of gardens. This cultivation area is expanding annually. We are confident in meeting the quantity stipulated in the memorandum. The export operation, however, will be exclusive to our association due to the paramount importance of quality, certification, and meeting standards. Many of our member producers are already certified, and we always conduct rigorous checks before shipments to ensure compliance," explained Panjavidze.
On the topic of financial gains, Panjavidze noted that blueberry prices in the European market exhibit more stability compared to Russia. While specific figures are challenging to predict, optimism prevails.
"Unlike the Russian market, where blueberry prices can fluctuate drastically, the European market offers more consistent pricing. We're hopeful for competitive rates that will satisfy Georgian farmers. However, exact figures remain elusive as they hinge on market dynamics and the yield in other countries," Panjavidze added.
Based on data from the previous year, Georgia exported over 1,390 tons of blueberries, with 89% destined for the Russian market. As of August 2023, according to Galt&Taggart's data, blueberry exports already touched the 3,000-ton mark.