How imports are squeezing the big U.S. (and Northwest) blueberry business

NW News Network

PULLMAN — A year ago, blueberry executives and farmers from all over the world celebrated at a scenic winery near Richland, Washington.

James Dean Kindle & the East Oregon Playboys jammed out catchy Western tunes in the ballroom.

But as the wine flowed and chafing dishes brimmed with beef sliders and salmon cakes, there were warning signs for U.S. blueberry farmers.

Imports from Mexico, Peru, Chile and Canada are shipping in lower-cost fruit during the U.S. growing season.

“Now basically, we have Mexican fruit coming in from March all the way to June. We start getting Per...