Peruvian agribusiness Agrícola Cerro Prieto is restructuring its blueberry production strategy by replacing older varieties with new genetics, expanding container-based cultivation systems, and adjusting operations to meet evolving market demands.
The company, which operates in northern Peru, has already replaced around 200 hectares of blueberry varieties last year and plans to replace another 300 hectares in 2026, according to Carlos Alberto Luna, Operations Manager at Agrícola Cerro Prieto, in an interview with Blueberries Consulting for the 2026 edition of Blue Magazine.
The varietal renewal programme is part of a broader effort to maintain productivity and competitiveness in Peru’s fast-evolving blueberry industry.
“Varietal replacement isn’t a fad; it’s a structural necessity. If we want to stay in business and continue growing, we have to adapt to the genetics that the market demands today,” Luna said.
New Genetics and Production Systems
Agrícola Cerro Prieto currently manages about 1,500 hectares of blueberries, primarily in the Chiclayo and Santa Rosa regions, which are important hubs in Peru’s globally competitive blueberry export sector.
The company has introduced newer varieties such as Sekoya Pop and Mágica, while other varieties including Imperial are being evaluated for future planting.
Looking ahead, the company expects total varietal replacement to reach around 700 hectares.
Blueberry production requires significant investment, Luna noted, with establishment costs ranging between US$120,000 and US$130,000 per hectare.
Shift Toward Container Cultivation
Another key change in the company’s strategy is a gradual transition from traditional soil cultivation to container-based growing systems.
According to Luna, container production offers better control over root systems, salinity levels, plant nutrition, and crop uniformity, which are critical factors in large-scale blueberry production.
“We are progressively migrating to pots because they offer clear advantages in root control, salt management, nutrition and uniformity,” he said.
Diversified Agricultural Portfolio
Agrícola Cerro Prieto has been operating in Peru for more than 30 years and has played a significant role in the development of agriculture in the country’s northern regions.
In addition to blueberries, the company cultivates around 1,800 hectares of avocados and about 450 hectares of asparagus.
Luna said continuous learning and engagement with the industry are essential as production techniques, genetics, and market expectations evolve rapidly.
“In blueberry farming, it’s not the one that grows fastest that wins, but the one that adapts best,” he said.
