Namibia’s blueberry sector sets up for major growth
The young crop continues to attract investors as new farms and capital shape its next stage.
NAMIBIA – Namibia’s blueberry industry continues to expand at a steady pace as growers, investors and experts note strong growth signals from both local farms and global markets.
Blueberry cultivation now covers 150 ha in Namibia, a scale that many compare to Peru’s early stages more than a decade ago. Peru grew from 80 ha in 2012 to more than 20 500 ha today. Namibia benefits from steady water supply, efficient logistics and early investment from institutions such as the Government Institutions Pension Fund. Since the first commercial plantings in 2019, blueberries have become the country’s second largest horticultural crop.
Industry projections point to growth toward 2 000 ha within ten years. Some analysts believe Namibia could reach 10 000 ha if larger developments move forward with strong alignment among investors and regulators. Experts note that early coordination will shape how fast the crop expands.
Albert Basson, chief investment officer at Spitz Capital, addressed the opportunity during a panel session at the International Blueberry Organisation Summit in Cape Town. He said Namibia reminds him of Peru’s early progress and added that the sector can grow fast if investors and regulators stay aligned. “I called it ‘little Peru’ because the signs look similar,” Basson said. “The country already has the basics it needs to grow, and investors can push it forward if they move together.”
Most of the next phase of development will likely come from corporate growers and agri-investment firms. These investors usually bring networks, management structures and technical teams that help young industries scale with more stability.
Global market trends support growth
The global blueberry market continues to grow as demand climbs in Europe, North America and Asia. Current assessments place the 2025 market at USD 10.27 billion and some analyses place it at USD 6.6 billion. Forecasts show the sector could reach between USD 13.2 billion and USD 15.52 billion by 2035. Industry reports credit this momentum to strong interest in healthy foods, improved varieties and better production systems.
Growers in many regions now use data tools to guide farming decisions. The International Blueberry Organization also highlights collaboration among growers, exporters and retailers as a key driver. Stronger breeding programs, climate-resilient varieties and improved post-harvest handling continue to support the crop’s appeal.
Producers in Europe and Latin America continue to test new varieties that last longer on shelves. Controlled-environment systems are also expanding, giving the industry more stable supply across seasons. These global advances support Namibia’s ambition to supply premium off-season markets in the southern hemisphere window.
Challenges remain. Farmers in several countries report reduced labor supply and climate pressures. Some markets also show signs of saturation, which pushes growers to seek new buyers and stronger varieties. Namibia’s early stage gives it room to shape its strategy with these lessons in mind.
As investors show interest and farms expand, the sector continues to move toward a stronger role in regional horticulture. Basson believes Namibia can gain ground quickly if momentum holds. “The growth so far shows what is possible,” he said. “If everyone stays focused, the country can build a strong place in the market.”
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