Blueberry Prices Fall as Australian Supply Peaks Amid Seasonal Overlap

By Ian Rogers

Blueberry prices across Australia have dropped significantly, with punnets now selling for under $2.50 in most capital cities due to a seasonal surge in supply. Earlier in the year, a gap in supply led to prices soaring up to $20 a punnet in some areas. However, with production in full swing, Australians are enjoying more affordable prices as local farms reach peak output.

In Western Australia, this price decline is fuelled by a strong local supply, as blueberry production in the northern region winds down while production in the south ramps up. “What you’re seeing is a crossover between the two regions. This [price level] will be consistent for the next month,” explained Joshua McGuinness, Mountain Blue’s general manager of sales and marketing.

While many of WA’s blueberries are locally sourced, some are typically imported from the eastern states. However, recent biosecurity measures to mitigate fruit fly risks have limited imports, creating more demand for locally grown berries and supporting WA farmers.

Rachel Mackenzie, Executive Director of Berries Australia, noted that low prices in peak season do not pose a significant concern for growers, who base profit margins on annual averages. “We need to consider the whole season’s average price to ensure growers can turn a profit,” Mackenzie said.

With demand variations across the country, WA farmers are also taking advantage of interstate opportunities. Berrysweet owner Anthony Yewers shared that he plans to send fruit to South Australia to help meet supply gaps caused by recent adverse weather in the eastern states.

For more local news, click here.