South Africa to host first-ever IBO Summit in Africa

SOUTH AFRICA – The International Blueberry Organization (IBO) Summit will land in Africa for the first time, with South Africa set to host the global event in Cape Town from September 25 to 27, 2025.

The gathering at the Cape Town International Convention Centre is drawing high expectations among blueberry industry members.

The local industry, organized by Berries ZA, views the summit as a chance to highlight the country’s strong growing conditions and the expertise behind its blueberries.

Elzette Schutte, Operations Manager of Berries ZA, said they expect a strong turnout, with around 600 participants, including 100 international visitors.

“The event will take place during the middle of our season, and it is a good opportunity to show the world how we operate,” she said.

The program will not only center on South Africa but also involve speakers from Namibia and Zimbabwe. Industry leaders will discuss global blueberry issues over two days, before attendees head out for farm visits.

“We will visit four farms with four packhouses, and we will show what precision farming is, and the amount of detail that goes into our operation, because we are proud of it and we want to show it,” Schutte said.

She added that the summit aims to grow in stature. “We don’t just want to be this little organization, because we are trying to elevate the meaning of blueberries for the world,” she said.

More than a trade show

Schutte stressed that the gathering is not simply a marketplace but a meeting point for growers and industry experts. “It’s not only what it can do for our industry, but what it can do for the world, because growers can learn from what we do and the challenges we face,” she said.

Although not yet confirmed, organizers are considering making the event a biennial fixture. Schutte explained that the IBO gives growers an understanding of their role on the global stage.

“We really hope everyone leaves the event excited, understanding where South Africa fits in the global picture,” she concluded.

Key insights from the 2024 IBO report

The 2024 IBO report shows South Africa’s blueberry industry has strengthened its foothold in premium markets. Despite climate impacts that delayed harvests and reduced export volumes by 12.5 percent, the country maintained strong fruit quality.

Producers also expanded technical advancements, with more blueberries now grown in tunnels and on substrates.

Shifts in logistics played a major role. Airfreight shipments rose sharply from 20 to 45 percent in 2023 due to port inefficiencies and strikes. While more costly, the move helped exporters keep up with demand.

Export figures reveal sharp gains in the Middle East, which rose 50 percent, followed by a 25 percent increase in the Far East and 18 percent growth in the UK.

Sales to the EU fell by 33 percent, but Canada opened its market to South African blueberries in late 2023, with trial shipments planned. Talks with India and China are also ongoing.

The upcoming summit will spotlight these developments while positioning Africa as an important contributor to the global blueberry trade.

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