Traceability in the Global Value Chain of Blueberry between Mexico and China

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the traceability system required by the Phytosanitary Protocol signed between Mexico and China for the export of fresh blueberries.

Design/methodology/approach: The case study approach is used to analyze the Global Blueberry Value Chain between Mexico and China (GBVCMCh). Information is collected through semi-structured interviews and bibliographic analysis.

Results: The blueberry traceability system is influenced by the differentiation of safety and phytosanitary attributes, which complies with the regulation established by the Chinese government to allow the entry of fresh blueberries to its market. The traceability system also provides and retrieves information through the use of codes on labels.

Limitations on study/implications: The traceability system of the Global Value Chain of a single product destined for a specific market was analyzed, so it cannot be generalized.

Findings/conclusions: The companies that are part of the GBVCMCh use the traceability system together with other tools that allow quality, safety, phytosanitary and logistics management, to provide information on the product, take decisions about payments and to comply with a regulation.