“International economies and dollar fluctuations in previous years have brought low returns for farmers…”
Juan Jose Flores García is the General Director of Aneberries, the National Association of Berry Exporters of Mexico. García is an agronomist graduated from Universidad Autónoma Chapingo.
AgriBrasilis – What is the importance of berries for Mexico?
García – In recent years, they have become a fundamental pillar for Mexican communities. This crop has high social value due to the generation of direct and indirect jobs, thus boosting local economies. Additionally, its environmental impact is highly positive, serving as an example for other sectors in resource conservation and utilization, aiming to leave the smallest possible footprint.
AgriBrasilis – What caused the drop in production in 2024?
García – International economies and dollar fluctuations in previous years have brought low returns for farmers, which directly impacted their production capacity and reduced the cultivated area in the country, resulting in a lower production volume.
The climate was also a determining factor, delaying export windows and forcing Mexico to compete with other major exporters to the U.S. during the same periods, leading to low returns due to oversupply.
AgriBrasilis – How can water and labor shortages be addressed?
García – Regarding water, the sector aims to preserve this valuable resource to prevent its overexploitation and scarcity.
Labor has always been a major challenge for the agricultural sector, and berries are no exception. Our main strategy is to ensure decent treatment of farm workers by offering fair wages and proper working conditions, which has proven to be an attractive incentive for workers.
“The strengthening of the Mexican peso has affected exports due to low returns…”
AgriBrasilis – The largest export markets are the U.S. and Canada. Are there other potential markets?
García – North America (95%) is indeed the primary destination for Mexican berry exports. However, they are shipped to 37 countries worldwide, including Europe (2%), Asia (2%), South America, South Africa, and Oceania (1%). There is an ongoing effort to expand this list of destinations.
AgriBrasilis – What are the expectations regarding the new U.S. government?
García – We believe it is still too early to have a clear outlook on the future relationship with the U.S. The official stance falls under the responsibility of the competent authorities, such as the Mexican Federal Government and the National Agricultural Council.
AgriBrasilis – What logistical bottlenecks do exporters face?
García – Challenges include the availability of air cargo space and direct routes to distant countries, as well as maritime transport, which requires specialized containers and controlled atmosphere modification services.
AgriBrasilis – How has the “super Mexican peso” impacted exports?
García – The strengthening of the Mexican peso has affected exports due to low returns for farmers, contributing to the current situation in the sector. Additionally, in the past four months, the rising dollar price has increased input costs.
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