The 36th International Blueberry Seminar 2025, held in Guadalajara's Hard Rock Hotel, convened industry leaders to deliberate on strategic responses to key challenges impacting Mexican blueberry producers and exporters. Attendees collectively addressed the U.S. tariff threats and outlined steps to enhance competitiveness and industry growth.
During the Conversation Panel titled "The blueberry industry, current status, strategies and trends," prominent figures such as Miguel Curiel of Aneberries, Rigoberto Guerrero of Hortifrut Mexico, César Ortiz of Berries Paradise, Roberto Samano of North Bay Produce, and Rodrigo Orozco of Agrovision México analyzed the tariff threat and Mexico's political and commercial landscape.
Roberto Sámano emphasized maintaining a reasonable debt level in the agricultural sector, recommending that it not exceed 20% to 25% of total capital. This ensures the sustainability of operations and the ability to meet financial commitments without impacting liquidity.
He highlighted two primary risks: Climatic conditions and political-economic factors related to the U.S.. Sámano stressed the need for producers to enhance productivity, optimize costs, and establish strong financial structures to counter exchange rate and tax increase risks. A solid commercial strategy is also crucial for placing produce in key markets amid instability. The USMCA provides some protections, but uncertainties persist due to U.S. policies on immigration, trade, and labor.
Sámano advised against financial structures involving partners with high return expectations. Instead, long-term bank financing negotiated over five to seven years could fortify a company's financial framework. Financial institutions remain interested in the berry sector due to its export potential, although rising interest rates have prompted producer caution. Financing options backed by government programs and FAIR schemes offer favorable conditions.
Rigoberto Guerrero noted the availability of state and federal programs that provide preferential financing through FIRA, offering flexible loans and access to insurance and technology. Such support aids in bolstering the sector's competitiveness and resilience. Overall, there's industry consensus on the necessity of ongoing financial support to tackle crises and threats, whether political, economic, or climatic in nature.
Source: Blueberries Consulting