Blackberries — with their deep purple hue and sweet, slightly tart flavor — have long been a staple in kitchens and gardens around the world. From being enjoyed fresh and juicy in summer to flavoring jams, desserts, yogurts, and smoothies, these antioxidant-rich berries have earned a solid spot in both home kitchens and commercial food production.
But have you ever wondered: Where does the world get most of its blackberries? Which regions supply these delightful fruits that end up in supermarkets, bakeries, and kitchens across continents? In this article, we’ll dive into the global blackberry supply chain, explore the top producing countries, and understand how these berries travel from farm to table.
Global Blackberry Production at a Glance
Blackberries are cultivated primarily in temperate and subtropical regions, thriving in areas with mild winters and cool summers. Over the past two decades, global blackberry demand has soared, thanks to their health benefits, versatility, and growing popularity in modern cuisine.
While blackberries grow naturally in many parts of the world, a few key countries account for the majority of commercial production and international trade. These countries have combined ideal climates, modern farming techniques, and efficient export systems to become leaders in the global blackberry market.
Where Does the World Get Its Blackberries?
Let’s take a closer look at the main sources:
1. Mexico — The Undisputed Global Blackberry Supplier
Annual Production: Approx. 230,000–240,000 metric tons
Global Market Share: About 35–40%
Mexico is by far the largest and most important supplier of blackberries worldwide. The country’s rise in blackberry farming over the last 20 years has been phenomenal, with massive exports of fresh berries to the United States, Canada, and European countries.
Why Mexico Leads:
- Ideal year-round growing conditions, especially in the central state of Michoacán, which produces over 90% of Mexico’s blackberries.
- Modern farming techniques, including greenhouses and tunnel systems, that allow for year-round harvests.
- Proximity to the United States, the world’s largest blackberry importer, ensures rapid delivery of fresh berries.
Key Export Markets:
- United States (largest importer)
- Canada
- United Kingdom
- Germany
- Spain
Most blackberries found in U.S. supermarkets during winter and early spring are grown in Mexico. The country’s well-established export infrastructure, certified farms, and partnerships with global produce companies like Driscoll’s and Hortifrut have further strengthened its position as the world’s primary blackberry supplier.
2. United States — A Traditional Powerhouse
Annual Production: Approx. 65,000–70,000 metric tons
The United States has a rich history of blackberry farming, particularly in the Pacific Northwest. Although it now imports large volumes of fresh blackberries from Mexico, it remains a key producer of both fresh and processed blackberries.
Top Blackberry Growing States:
- Oregon — Famous for Marionberries, a cultivated hybrid blackberry.
- California
- Washington
- Arkansas
Most of the U.S.’s blackberry harvest is used for fresh consumption, frozen berries, jams, syrups, and desserts.
Key Distribution:
- Domestic U.S. markets
- Canada
- Japan
The U.S. supplies a significant portion of its own market during summer and early fall, while importing fresh blackberries from Mexico during off-season months.
3. Serbia — Europe’s Frozen Berry Specialist
Annual Production: Approx. 25,000 metric tons
In Europe, Serbia is one of the top suppliers of blackberries, primarily for the frozen berry industry. The country’s cool climate, fertile soils, and long berry-growing tradition make it a reliable source of high-quality blackberries.
Where Serbian Blackberries Go:
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Turkey
Serbia specializes in individually quick frozen (IQF) blackberries, which are widely used in frozen desserts, smoothies, and pastries across Europe.
4. Poland — Eastern Europe’s Berry Exporter
Annual Production: Approx. 20,000–22,000 metric tons
Poland is another major European supplier of blackberries, with the majority of its harvest processed into frozen products, jams, and juices.
Top Blackberry Growing Regions:
- Lubelskie
- Mazowieckie
- Podlaskie
Polish blackberries are exported mainly to:
- European Union countries
- Russia
- Middle Eastern markets
5. Chile — The Southern Hemisphere’s Seasonal Supplier
Annual Production: Approx. 4,000 metric tons
Though modest in volume, Chile plays a crucial role by supplying fresh blackberries during the Northern Hemisphere’s off-season (December to March).
Main Export Markets:
- United States
- Canada
- European Union
Chile’s excellent export infrastructure and strict agricultural standards make it a trusted seasonal supplier for countries that experience limited domestic production in winter.
Who Are the Largest Blackberry Importers?
While production is centered in a few countries, demand for blackberries is truly global. The largest importers include:
- United States (imports heavily from Mexico and Chile)
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- Canada
- Spain
These markets rely on year-round imports to meet rising consumer demand, particularly for fresh berries, which are highly perishable and require rapid transportation from farm to market.
How Are Blackberries Exported and Consumed?
Fresh Blackberries:
- Exported in refrigerated containers
- Primarily sold in supermarkets and fresh produce markets
Frozen Blackberries:
- Individually Quick Frozen (IQF) for bulk orders
- Used by food manufacturers for smoothies, yogurts, ice cream, pastries, and jams
Blackberry Products:
- Jams and preserves
- Concentrates and syrups
- Bakery fillings
Frozen and processed blackberries offer longer shelf life and convenience for both commercial kitchens and home use.
Global Blackberry Supply Chain at a Glance
| Rank | Country | Annual Production (Metric Tons) | Specialty |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mexico | 230,000–240,000 | Fresh exports, year-round supply |
| 2 | United States | 65,000–70,000 | Fresh and processed markets |
| 3 | Serbia | 25,000 | Frozen berries for Europe |
| 4 | Poland | 20,000–22,000 | Frozen and processed berries |
| 5 | Chile | 4,000 | Off-season fresh supply |
The Future of Global Blackberry Trade
The global blackberry market continues to grow, driven by increasing demand for healthy, antioxidant-rich foods. Key trends include:
- Expansion of protected agriculture (greenhouses and tunnels) in Mexico and the U.S.
- Rising popularity of organic blackberries in premium markets
- Growth in frozen blackberry exports from Serbia and Poland
- Emerging producers like Morocco, Costa Rica, and Guatemala entering the market
As cold-chain logistics improve and new cultivars with longer shelf life are introduced, expect to see even more blackberries on supermarket shelves worldwide.
Final Thoughts
So, where does the world get most of its blackberries? The answer is clear: Mexico dominates the global supply, particularly for fresh exports, while the United States, Serbia, Poland, and Chile play essential roles in meeting seasonal and frozen berry demands.
Thanks to year-round harvests, efficient export systems, and rising global consumption, blackberries are now more accessible than ever. Whether enjoyed fresh on a warm summer day or blended into a winter smoothie, chances are those berries traveled a remarkable journey from one of these top-producing countries to your table.
Leave A Comment