South Africa to host landmark IBO Summit, advancing global blueberry industry collaboration
Interview with Elzette Schutte, Operations Manager at BerriesZA
The International Blueberry Organization (IBO) is preparing to host its first summit on the African continent, scheduled for September 25–27 at the renowned Cape Town International Convention Centre. The event will bring together blueberry growers, industry leaders, and stakeholders from around the world for three days of in-depth discussions, knowledge sharing, and networking, set against the scenic backdrop of South Africa’s Western Cape.
Elzette Schutte, Operations Manager at BerriesZA, emphasized the significance of the event:
“South Africa is a beautiful country with a rapidly growing blueberry sector. We’re eager to showcase our practices and contribute meaningfully to global conversations around blueberries.”
The timing of the summit aligns with South Africa’s blueberry season, offering delegates firsthand insight into local production. The Cape Town venue, located near landmarks such as Table Mountain and Robben Island, provides a fitting setting for a world-class industry gathering.
“We’re expecting around 600 delegates, including 100 international guests,” Schutte noted. “It’s more than just the venue—we’ve curated a compelling program that addresses the most pressing issues facing the global blueberry industry.”
The agenda includes keynote addresses from industry thought leaders, including Mario Steta, Cindy van Rijswick, and Darcy Vetter. Key topics will range from precision agriculture and sustainability to market access and global logistics.
“This summit is a unique opportunity for growers to understand their role in the global value chain and to learn from one another,” Schutte added.
Beyond the conference sessions, delegates will take part in guided farm visits, offering a closer look at South Africa’s innovative and precise blueberry farming methods.
“We want attendees to experience the quality, detail, and technology behind our operations,” said Schutte.
By hosting the IBO Summit, South Africa aims not only to raise the profile of its blueberry industry but also to foster deeper collaboration and information exchange among global industry players.
The IBO summit not only aims to enhance the visibility of South Africa’s blueberry industry but also to create a platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration among global players. “It’s time to elevate the IBO conference to the next level, making it a must-attend event on everyone’s calendar,” Schutte concluded.
As anticipation builds, this landmark gathering is poised to leave a lasting impression, celebrating South Africa’s dynamic agricultural landscape and advancing the global dialogue on blueberry production.
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09.06.2025
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