Australian fresh produce company Costa Group has launched a new berry growing operation in Laos, focusing on blueberry cultivation.
The project commenced on 1 March, backed by an initial investment to support 17ha of blueberry crops in Paksong on the Bolaven Plateau.
Over the next five years, Costa Group intends to expand this investment significantly, targeting a growth to 200ha of blueberry plantings.
Beyond the initial 17ha, Costa aims to plant an additional 50ha in 2026, with an ambitious goal of reaching 200ha by 2028.
Costa Group CEO Marc Werner stated, “This is not only an important project for the Costa Group in developing the company’s international berry growing operations, but also in establishing what we hope will be a major investment in berry farming in Laos that will promote economic development, provide benefits for the local agricultural sector, and support local communities.”
With this investment, the company aims to establish a comprehensive commercial blueberry farming footprint in Laos.
“What makes Laos such an ideal location for Costa to grow blueberries is not only its climate and geographic location, but also the opportunity to export these blueberries to other countries in Asia,” added Werner.
Costa Group specializes not only in blueberry cultivation but also in producing diverse crops such as avocados, grapes, and tomatoes. Furthermore, its expertise in the development of proprietary blueberry varieties enhances their operations.
The company’s blueberry breeding programme, which has been developed over three decades, plays a pivotal role in their success.
Costa asserts that it has cultivated blueberry varieties and agronomic practices tailored for various climates, including temperate and sub-tropical regions.
This initiative is already generating local employment, with 65 workers currently active at the site.
As the project advances, Costa Group is committed to further workforce development by providing extensive training and job opportunities across various levels, including farm roles, specialist horticultural positions, and management roles.
Werner indicated that “when we reach the planned production footprint of 200 ha, our workforce should grow to employing up to 2,000 locals.”
Costa Group’s blueberry varieties are cultivated globally, spanning several countries and continents including Australia, China, Morocco, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and throughout the Americas.
In 2023, Costa Group inked a takeover agreement with a consortium led by Paine Schwartz Partners, significantly positioning the company within the food manufacturing sector.
The acquisition, valued at A$1.5bn ($930m), also includes collaboration with renowned fruit grower Driscoll’s and British Columbia Investment Management Corp from Canada.
