https://en.sputniknews.africa/20241016/very-ambitious-target-zimbabwe-aims-to-become-leading-global-blueberry-supplier-by-2030-1068709743.html
'Very Ambitious Target': Zimbabwe Aims to Become Leading Global Blueberry Supplier by 2030
'Very Ambitious Target': Zimbabwe Aims to Become Leading Global Blueberry Supplier by 2030
Sputnik Africa
Zimbabwe's blueberry industry, which began with small plantings in 2008, has rapidly expanded. By 2023, production reached 5,500 tonnes, with expectations to... 16.10.2024, Sputnik Africa
2024-10-16T14:13+0200
2024-10-16T14:13+0200
2024-10-16T17:36+0200
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Zimbabwe is working toward expanding its blueberry farming capacity with plans to increase the current 570 hectares of cultivation to 1,500 hectares in the medium term, Linda Nielsen, CEO of the Zimbabwean Horticulture Council, told Sputnik Africa.This move is part of a broader strategy to transform Zimbabwe's horticulture sector into a billion-dollar industry.The horticulture industry is targeting $240 million in investment specifically for blueberries, which would not only boost production but also contribute substantially to the country’s economy.What's also important is that the blueberry industry is a major employer, offering significant opportunities for job creation and workforce development, from entry-level positions like picking and packing to middle management roles, the CEO underscored. Special economic zones can facilitate this growth by providing investment security and attracting foreign investors to partner with local producers.As Nielsen noted, one of Zimbabwe's competitive advantages lies in its unique climate, which allows the country to access the global blueberry market earlier than major producers like South Africa and Peru.As part of its strategy, Zimbabwe is also exploring new export markets beyond its traditional base in the European Union.The country is also working closely with partners like South Africa on research and development to address common agricultural challenges, ensuring that its blueberry industry continues to thrive and expand, she concluded.
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zimbabwe, southern africa, africa insight, economy, horticulture, investment, export, india, china, russia, asia
'Very Ambitious Target': Zimbabwe Aims to Become Leading Global Blueberry Supplier by 2030
14:13 16.10.2024 (Updated: 17:36 16.10.2024) Christina Glazkova
Writer / Editor
Zimbabwe's blueberry industry, which began with small plantings in 2008, has rapidly expanded. By 2023, production reached 5,500 tonnes, with expectations to hit 8,000 tonnes this year. Although still behind South Africa, the country aims to triple its output by 2030, driven by ambitious goals set by industry leaders.
Zimbabwe is working toward expanding its blueberry farming capacity with plans to increase the current 570 hectares of cultivation to 1,500 hectares in the medium term, Linda Nielsen, CEO of the Zimbabwean Horticulture Council, told Sputnik Africa.
This move is part of a broader strategy to transform Zimbabwe's horticulture sector into a billion-dollar industry.
"It would be wonderful if we could become the world's largest supplier. [...] So, it's a very ambitious target," Nielsen said, noting that achieving this goal requires significant investment.
The horticulture industry is
targeting $240 million in investment specifically for blueberries, which would not only boost production but also contribute substantially to the country’s economy.
"The return on investment to the country and into the national fiscus as well as into the sector would be hugely beneficial," she added.
What's also important is that the blueberry industry is a major employer, offering
significant opportunities for job creation and workforce development, from entry-level positions like picking and packing to middle management roles, the CEO underscored. Special economic zones can facilitate this growth by providing investment security and attracting foreign investors to partner with local producers.
As Nielsen noted, one of Zimbabwe's competitive advantages lies in its
unique climate, which allows the country to access the global blueberry market earlier than major producers like South Africa and Peru.
"We are able to take price advantage before the other bigger players [...] get into the market," she explained, adding that Zimbabwean blueberries are also known for their premium quality, attracting high-end markets due to their size, flavor, and texture.
As part of its strategy, Zimbabwe is also exploring new
export markets beyond its traditional base in the European Union.
"We are looking at India, China, and Russia as well [...] Diversity of markets is key in order for us to take advantage," the CEO said.
The country is also working closely with partners like South Africa on research and development to address common agricultural challenges, ensuring that its blueberry industry continues to thrive and expand, she concluded.
