The Rise of Australia’s Blueberry Industry
By Berries Australia
The development of the Australian blueberry industry is a remarkable success story evolving from its first commercial crops in 1974 to a powerhouse sector valued at $505 million by 2024. Over the last two decades, production has scaled dramatically from 2,400 tonnes in 2004 valued at $25 million to more than 27,500 tonnes today. Australian production is spread across diverse geographic regions—from the Atherton Tablelands in Queensland to North-West Tasmania—enabling a 52-week year-round supply of domestically grown premium fresh fruit.
Approximately 65% of Australian households now purchase blueberries, with the average household spending around $51.10 annually on the fruit. This level of household penetration is potentially the highest in the world and is an extraordinary statistic when one considers that the fruit was virtually unknown in Australia less than 50 years ago. It should be noted that whilst, 87% of fruit is grown locally a small percentage does come in from New Zealand during low supply periods
The industry’s success is underpinned by the fact that Australia grows some of the best blueberries in the world and is recognised as a world leader in blueberry plant genetics, utilising advanced technology and traditional breeding techniques to develop superior varieties. These varieties are globally recognized for their “super-jumbo” size, firm texture, and high sweetness levels, often winning international taste awards. The industry’s commitment to innovation has allowed Australian-developed varieties such as Arana, Eureka Sunrise and Magica to be licensed and grown in over 40 countries. Australia also holds the Guiness World Record for the world’s biggest blueberry coming in at 39.31mm and weighing 20.4 grams!
International trade is a critical component of the industry’s future strategy, with 1,085 tonnes exported in the year ending June 2024. While domestic markets are robust, the export sector is valued at $26.4 million and continues to grow. Current export markets are heavily concentrated in Asia, with Hong Kong and Singapore accounting for roughly 81% of total export volume. A major milestone in this expansion was celebrated on 9 December 2025 in Hanoi, marking the official market access of Australian blueberries into Vietnam. Hosted by the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), this launch highlighted Vietnam as a priority growth market where consumers have long admired Australian produce for its high safety standards and exceptional taste.
Australian blueberries offer a significant competitive advantage in the global marketplace, especially with their ability to reach Asian markets in as little as 24 hours from harvest. They are counter-seasonal to Chinese supply, providing a reliable window for premium fruit when other major producers are out of season. Furthermore, the industry operates under rigorous safety and ethical standards, maintaining high levels of compliance with programs such as HARPS and Freshcare. With the integration of cutting-edge supply chain technologies providing real-time transparency and traceability, international buyers can trust that the fruit consistently meets strict standards for sustainability and quality. This combination of world-leading genetics, efficient logistics, and official new market access ensures the industry is well-equipped to meet rising demand for what is now one of the region’s most sought-after superfood.
12-22-2025
IBO Editorial.
