Zimbabwe’s berry industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, with exports soaring by 50% in 2024. This rapid expansion, fueled primarily by blueberry production, underscores the nation’s rising prominence in the international fruit market. With exports increasing from 6 million kilograms in 2023 to 8 million kilograms this year, Zimbabwe is cementing its position as a key global player in berry exports.
The Driving Forces Behind Zimbabwe’s Berry Boom
Several factors have contributed to this remarkable growth, including favorable climatic conditions and expanding commercial farming operations. Unlike other fruits such as grapes, cranberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries, blueberries have become the backbone of Zimbabwe’s berry exports, outpacing all competitors in production and global demand.
Key Export Markets: Europe, the UK, and Beyond
Zimbabwe’s berry exports are exclusively destined for international markets, with no local sales recorded. European countries, particularly Germany, the Netherlands, and Spain, remain the leading buyers, with the United Kingdom, the Far East (Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia), and the UAE also emerging as significant destinations.
This increasing demand highlights the vital role the berry sector plays in Zimbabwe’s economy, providing employment and contributing to foreign exchange earnings.
Expanding Capacity to Meet Demand
To sustain this momentum, the industry is investing heavily in infrastructure. Plans are underway for a 50-hectare expansion, requiring an estimated investment of US$5 million to US$6 million. The cost of establishing a single hectare of berry production is between US$70,000 and US$120,000, reflecting the capital-intensive nature of the sector.
To facilitate this expansion, stakeholders are considering structured financing models, including debt and equity financing. A five-year tenure at a 10% annual interest rate has been proposed to attract investors and secure long-term financial stability.
Challenges Facing the Industry
Despite its impressive growth, Zimbabwe’s berry industry faces several challenges:
1. Limited Access to Structured Finance
Indigenous farmers struggle to enter the industry due to a lack of government-backed structured financing. Without accessible credit facilities, small-scale growers find it difficult to participate in this lucrative market.
2. Heavy Reliance on Irrigation & Energy Supply
Berry farming demands substantial water usage, with each plant requiring five liters of water daily. Efficient drip irrigation systems are crucial, making a reliable electricity supply essential for farm operations. Power shortages and high energy costs pose risks to production continuity.
3. Cold Chain & Logistics Bottlenecks
Maintaining berry quality during transportation is a major challenge. Investment in pack sheds, refrigerated trucks, tractors, and sorting machines is necessary to ensure berries remain fresh and market-ready.
4. Limited Expertise in Blueberry Farming
Blueberry farming is still relatively new to Zimbabwe. To improve yields and maintain high-quality standards, the industry is focusing on training programs and knowledge-sharing initiatives to equip farmers with the necessary expertise.
Air Cargo Setback: A Threat to Growth?
While Zimbabwe’s berry industry is thriving, the broader horticulture sector faces a logistical hurdle following KLM/MartinAir’s suspension of flights to Harare. This decision disrupts the export of Zimbabwean horticultural products to Europe, which has been reliant on the airline for nearly three decades.
The Horticultural Development Council (HDC) has raised concerns over the availability of alternative air cargo services. With Zimbabwean exporters already struggling to secure cargo space due to EU carbon emission regulations and shifts in airfreight policies, finding new transportation solutions is critical.
Potential Alternatives
Industry stakeholders remain optimistic about finding solutions. The HDC has proposed using regional hubs in Ethiopia, Doha, and Dubai to facilitate continued exports to Europe. While these alternatives may require adjustments in logistics, they could provide a much-needed lifeline for Zimbabwe’s horticultural exports.
The Road Ahead: Ensuring Sustainable Growth
To maintain the industry’s upward trajectory, Zimbabwe must:
✅ Secure structured financing to support indigenous farmers.
✅ Invest in cold chain logistics and energy-efficient irrigation systems.
✅ Enhance training programs to boost expertise in blueberry farming.
✅ Establish alternative air cargo routes to mitigate export disruptions.
With global demand for berries on the rise, Zimbabwe’s position as a key exporter presents a golden opportunity. By addressing these challenges and capitalizing on its strengths, the country can ensure sustained growth, profitability, and long-term success in the global berry market.
Zimbabwe’s berry industry has emerged as a powerful force in global exports, driven by blueberry production, international demand, and strategic investments. While challenges remain, the country’s ability to adapt and innovate will determine its continued success in the competitive global fruit market.
