Guadalajara, Mexico - Jalisco, Mexico is the world's fifth largest producer of berries, which is why Guadalajara was once again chosen to hold the 9th International Congress of Aneberries (Mexico's National Association of Exporters of Berries).

This year's event, set to take place from July 31-August 2 at Expo Guadalajara, will focus on the importance of social responsibility and sustainability both, essential aspects for the healthy development of the sector.

Aldo Mares Benavides, president of Aneberries, stated that the Mexico berry industry has remained strong, with national exports to 35 countries in 2018 that amounted to US$2.2 billion (360,000 tons including strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries).

"There are five states that lead berries production, the first place goes to Michoacán followed by Jalisco, then Baja California Norte, Guanajuato and finally Sinaloa; they are the states that concentrate the highest berries production, although Michoacán is the one that produces more kilos and covers more hectares; Jalisco is a very successful production model as well, since it represents 60% of the nation's exports," he said.