Increased international competition and higher market demands are marking a turning point for the blueberry industry in Chile. This was one of the key issues addressed at the International Blueberries 2026 Seminar – 40th Chile edition, an event in which the Agricultural Research Institute (INIA) participated, focusing on the challenges of sectoral competitiveness.

The opening of the meeting was led by the national deputy director of R&D of INIA, María Teresa Pino, together with María Sofía Silva, regional director of ProChile O'Higgins, and the international advisor Jorge Esquivel, who agreed on the need to advance in productive adaptation in the face of a more demanding scenario.

During his presentation, Pino stated that the country is facing a structural shift in its competitive landscape. “Today, Chile doesn't compete on volume or cost, but on sophistication, quality, and reliability,” he affirmed. He added that the Chilean blueberry's market position has historically been linked to knowledge development. “The development of blueberries in Chile has been accompanied by research from its inception, from the introduction of varieties to post-harvest handling,” he noted.

In that context, he warned that one of the main challenges is accelerating the reconversion processes. “If we want to maintain competitiveness, varietal reconversion must move forward more decisively, incorporating high-level genetics,” he stated. He also emphasized the need to improve production efficiency. “The challenge today is not only to produce more, but to produce better: with greater efficiency, precision, and intelligent use of resources,” he maintained.

Another key point raised was product differentiation. “It’s not enough to simply reach the markets; we must do so with clear and consistent attributes that allow us to stand out,” he added. Regarding innovation, he highlighted the role of post-harvest processes. “It has been key for the

"Chile's positioning and today we continue to advance in solutions that allow us to ensure better quality at the destination," he stated.

INIA's participation in the seminar also included the presence of its regional team and an institutional booth, where advances in applied research, post-harvest handling, and digital agriculture tools were presented. Finally, Pino emphasized the importance of collaboration among stakeholders in the sector. "The development of this industry has been possible thanks to effective collaboration between the public and private sectors," he stated, adding that "the future of blueberries in Chile depends on our ability to innovate, differentiate ourselves, and work together effectively."

More news about the International Blueberries Seminar Chile 2026:

Market, genetics and global competition: the signs for the Chilean blueberry business

Andrés Armstrong: “The Chilean blueberry industry is undergoing a transformation process”

The voices that drive the blueberry industry today are focusing on its new challenges

International Blueberry Seminars 2026: Blueberries travel through Peru, Chile, Mexico, Morocco and China