Blueberry growing industry outlook in Yunan Province China

The blueberry industry in Yunnan Province, China, has experienced remarkable growth, positioning the region as a significant player in both domestic and international markets.

Rapid Expansion and Economic Impact

Yunnan’s favorable climate—characterized by abundant sunlight, cool nights, and diverse elevations—has made it an ideal location for blueberry cultivation. As of 2024, the province’s blueberry cultivation area reached 16,660 hectares, producing 171,000 tonnes of fruit and generating an estimated industry value of 17 billion yuan (approximately $2.36 billion USD).

The city of Mengzi, within the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture, has become a central hub for blueberry production, boasting over 2,300 hectares of greenhouse cultivation. This development has improved the livelihoods of more than 20,000 local farmers and attracted over 100 domestic and international companies, creating jobs for over 100,000 people in the region.

Year-Round Production and Varietal Research

Yunnan’s unique geography allows for staggered harvesting periods across different elevations, enabling year-round blueberry production. Early-maturing varieties are cultivated in lower-altitude areas like Honghe and Wenshan, while mid and late-maturing varieties thrive in higher-altitude regions such as Kunming and Lijiang.

The Institute of Alpine Botany and Economics of the Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences has been instrumental in advancing blueberry cultivation. Their research on 88 different blueberry varieties led to the selection of 13 optimal types for the region. Additionally, they developed an efficient tissue culture protocol, reducing the seedling cultivation period from 150 to 30 days, thereby enhancing both the quality and survival rate of new seedlings.

Export Growth and Global Reach

Initially focused on domestic consumption, Yunnan’s blueberry industry has expanded its reach to international markets. In 2024, the customs office in Mengzi supervised the export of 1,425 tonnes of blueberries, accounting for over half of China’s total blueberry exports. These exports have reached more than 10 countries and regions, including Malaysia and the United Arab Emirates, highlighting the global demand for Yunnan’s blueberries.

Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite its successes, the industry faces challenges such as rising labor costs and concerns over the unauthorized cultivation of patented blueberry varieties. To address these issues, stakeholders are exploring automation and emphasizing the importance of plant variety protection to ensure sustainable growth.

Overall, Yunnan’s blueberry industry exemplifies how strategic agricultural development, supported by research and favorable environmental conditions, can drive economic growth and establish a strong presence in global markets.