Finnish wild berry prices set to rise as foreign pickers denied visas

Wild berry prices in Finland are likely to rise this summer due to a sharp drop in foreign pickers after most visa applications were rejected, according to a Yle report.

A market vendor in Kajaani, Raul Seema, estimates the price of wild blueberries could climb from the current €8 per litre to €10, comparing the threshold to the cost of a Jägermeister shot in a bar. Last year, the same berries sold for €5 per litre at the same market.

Major grocery chains declined to comment on future pricing, citing competition law. Lidl acknowledged that fewer pickers would significantly affect supply and its ability to offer Fair Trade berries. K-Group and Valio noted uncertainty over availability but avoided discussing prices, as retailers set their own consumer rates.

The industry association Arctic Flavours expects only a modest price increase, despite wild berry prices already rising 12.3% for fresh and 15.7% for frozen products last year. Executive Director Birgitta Partanen warned that further hikes could make some berry products unsellable, with layoffs and closures already reported in the sector.

Consumer researcher Terhi-Anna Wilska predicts more Finns may pick berries themselves if prices rise, reducing commercial supply but meeting demand through private collection.