Mexico's Berry Sector Thrives With Record Production

In 2023, Mexico ranked among the top exporters of berries worldwide. Berries are one of Mexico's most important agricultural products, with a total production of 1.15Mt over 42,975ha during 2023.

At the 14th edition of the Anaberries International Congress, Víctor Villalobos, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER), stated that public policies were strengthened to bolster the berry production chain and open new markets. Production and exports grew significantly in 2023, with 462,491t marketed to the United States, Middle Eastern countries, Southeast Asia, and the European Union, reaching an export value of US$3.9 billion, reflecting a 4% year-on-year increase.

During the conference, The Impact of Berries on Mexico's Agri-Food Sector, Villalobos described these products as a source of national pride, noting that in 2023, blackberries and strawberries ranked first globally, with sales equivalent to US$777 million and US$1.2 billion, respectively. Following closely, raspberries ranked second with US$1.3 billion.

In terms of production, Mexican production of blackberries held the top global position with 238,122t, while strawberries and raspberries ranked second with 641,552t and 190,413t, respectively. Additionally, blueberry production recorded 80,133t, placing it fifth globally and seventh in exports, with a commercial value of US$776 million.

Nationally, berry production reached 1.15Mt, with Michoacan producing 658,969t, Jalisco 184,697t, and Baja California 140,478t. Villalobos emphasized that this activity benefits producer families by providing food and economic resources and generates at least 500,000 direct jobs in 21 states. Nationally, strawberry production contributes 38% of total employment sources, raspberries 23%, blackberries 22%, and blueberries 17%, highlighted Villalobos.

Villalobos emphasized the importance of reinforcing social inclusion and encouraging young people to stay in agriculture. Furthermore, he highlighted that women’s work is a fundamental part of the productive chain, accounting for 40% of the workforce. “It is important to promote national consumption campaigns for berries and maintain a policy of attention and decent conditions for field workers with fair wages, training, gender equity, and opportunities for young people,” emphasized Villalobos. 

Additionally, among the challenges to be addressed in the sector is strengthening productive capacity through technological innovation, continuing public-private sector alliances, and promoting good agricultural practices aimed at integrated pest and disease management and soil and water resource care, stated Villalobos.

Juan Cortina Gallardo, President, National Agricultural Council (CNA), highlighted the importance of teamwork to face challenges and ensure the health, safety, and quality of products. In this regard, Villalobos stated that the industry will continue to participate in prevention, control, and eradication campaigns for diseases and pests through the National Service for Health, Safety, and Agri-Food Quality (SENASICA).

The federal official also reiterated the importance of research, development, information, and statistics for decision-making and market opening for Mexico's agri-food sector. He noted that INIFAP contributes research and marketing lines through the design of a technical guide for optimal performance of berry varieties in genetics, physiology, and phytosanitary measures. Additionally, it develops technology to produce high-quality genetic blackberry plants in tissue culture laboratories and nurseries.

Miguel Ángel Curiel, President, National Association of Berry Exporters (Aneberries), emphasized that Mexico is well-positioned to be the preferred supplier for the North American market, especially in strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries. “The association's goal is to maintain the quality and safety of berries, to be a global benchmark for sustainability, and to promote these fruits as consumer favorites,” he said.

As of May 31 of the current year, national berry production continues to trend upward and could surpass 2023 levels, according to SADER data. For strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries, 397,234t, 73,058t, and 129,448t have been harvested, respectively.