Zimbabwe is positioning itself to become a major player in the global blueberry market, with plans to significantly expand its cultivation capacity over the next few years. The country is targeting an increase from the current 570 hectares of blueberry farming to 1,500 hectares in the medium term, according to Linda Nielsen, CEO of the Zimbabwean Horticulture Council. Speaking to Sputnik Africa, Nielsen described the initiative as a vital step toward economic growth, job creation, and export diversification.
“It would be wonderful if we could become the world’s largest supplier,” Nielsen said, acknowledging that the goal is ambitious and will require substantial investment. The Zimbabwean government, in collaboration with the private sector, is working to enhance infrastructure, adopt modern farming technologies, and foster strategic partnerships to boost production. Nielsen emphasized that the expansion of the blueberry industry is not just about increasing output but also about positioning Zimbabwe as a competitive force in the global agricultural sector.
The country’s blueberry industry is already gaining momentum, with Zimbabwe exporting around 5,000 tonnes of the fruit annually. However, the government and industry leaders believe there is much more potential to unlock. With global demand for blueberries on the rise due to their status as a “superfood,” Zimbabwe sees an opportunity to tap into this lucrative market.
“The return on investment to the country and into the national fiscus, as well as into the sector, would be hugely beneficial,” Nielsen added, highlighting the broader economic impact of the project. By scaling up production, Zimbabwe aims to increase export revenues, create thousands of new jobs, and contribute significantly to the national economy. The government hopes that the blueberry sector will serve as a model for other agricultural initiatives in the country, helping to revitalize Zimbabwe’s horticultural industry.
As part of its growth strategy, Zimbabwe is also exploring new export markets to reduce reliance on traditional buyers. Currently, the European Union is the main destination for Zimbabwean blueberries, but the country is actively looking to diversify its customer base. “We are looking at India, China, and Russia as well,” Nielsen said, noting that expanding into these markets is key to securing the industry’s long-term success.
Diversifying export markets will not only help Zimbabwe mitigate risks but also provide a more stable and profitable path for its blueberry industry. By tapping into emerging markets in Asia and beyond, Zimbabwe is positioning itself to take advantage of rising global demand for healthy, nutrient-rich foods.
The country’s push to expand its blueberry farming is part of a broader effort to modernize its agricultural sector, which has long been a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s economy. The government is encouraging investment in agricultural infrastructure, from irrigation systems to cold storage facilities, to ensure that the country’s produce meets international quality standards and can compete on the world stage.
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