As the Formula 1 entourage landed in Brazil for the São Paulo Grand Prix at the Interlagos Circuit, a unique operation was unfolding at Viracopos International Airport in Campinas, São Paulo. Aircraft, initially tasked with transporting the racing teams' cars, parts, and equipment, were also loaded with Brazilian fruits destined for European markets. The cargo included ginger, lemons, mangoes, and papayas, which were first flown to Amsterdam before being distributed across Europe. Additional shipments of papayas and mangoes were sent to Lisbon, Portugal, and Paris, France, respectively, via commercial passenger flights. The total fruit export during this operation amounted to 110,601 kilograms.
This logistical feat was managed under the watchful eye of the Agricultural Surveillance System (Vigiagro) of Viracopos, an agency of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock's Agricultural Defense Secretariat. Vigiagro's primary role is to inspect agricultural products being exported or imported, ensuring Brazil's biosecurity by preventing the entry of pests and diseases. The Ministry notes that these fruit shipments do not require refrigeration, but emphasize the importance of rapid transport to maintain freshness.
The process involves the verification of shipments' quantities and identities upon their arrival at the airport docks each morning. After inspection, the products are certified and prepared for their journey, ensuring they are ready for departure the next morning. Rita Lourenço, the head of Vigiagro at Viracopos, underscored the economic benefits of leveraging major international events like the Formula 1 Grand Prix to boost exports of domestic products. "Whenever there is space on aircraft, opportunities to expand exports are seized," Lourenço stated, highlighting the strategic approach to enhancing Brazil's export activities.
Source: DatamarNews