Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil's primary state for melon production and export, is assessing its potential to expand exports to China following recent market access developments. Industry stakeholders estimate that melon exports could triple within three years, driven by opportunities in China's off-season supply gap.
China, with a population of 1.4 billion, remains the world's largest melon producer, averaging 10 million tonnes annually. However, domestic production typically declines between October and April due to weather conditions, creating a seasonal gap that exporters in Rio Grande do Norte aim to address. While China is encouraging increased domestic consumption, producers in Brazil are seeking to position their harvest to coincide with this market window.
Fábio Queiroga, president of Coex, noted that the region could align its export season with China's off-season but highlighted the logistical constraints involved. He emphasized that improved export infrastructure and transit times will be essential to ensure that fruit reaches Chinese markets within 30 days to maintain quality.
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Exporting to China presents a range of challenges, including phytosanitary standards, certification requirements, and post-harvest handling constraints. Other considerations include expanding cultivation areas, securing a reliable labor force, and optimizing logistics infrastructure. Industry representatives noted that maintaining fruit quality throughout the extended transport period is essential, given the perishable nature of melons.
Jorge de Souza, project manager at the Brazilian Association of Fruit and Derivatives Exporters (Abrafrutas), underscored the importance of preserving fruit quality during shipment. He said that while demand potential exists, maintaining product integrity from Brazil to China requires addressing shipping durations and transit conditions.
To support market entry, a delegation of Brazilian agribusiness representatives, including members of Abrafrutas and the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (Apex-Brasil), is scheduled to visit Shanghai in May 2025.
The Sebrae RN is also involved in supporting sector development through technology and innovation initiatives. João Hélio Cavalcanti Júnior, Technical Director at Sebrae RN, noted ongoing efforts to improve post-harvest handling and extend shelf life through technological interventions. These measures aim to address the specific quality requirements of the Chinese market.
Chinese trade representatives are expected to attend the upcoming International Tropical Irrigated Fruit Expo (Expofruit) in Mossoró from August 20–22, which will further facilitate engagement with Brazilian producers.
Currently, melons produced in Mossoró's pest-free zone are the first Brazilian fruit approved for export to China. Additionally, table grapes from the São Francisco Valley have also been authorized for the Chinese market. In a separate development, investments are being made in cashew production in Serra do Mel, reflecting broader diversification in the region's agricultural activities.
Brazil produces approximately 340,000 tonnes of melons annually, with Rio Grande do Norte accounting for the majority of both production and exports. The workshop in Mossoró served as a platform to assess trade opportunities and sector readiness for export growth to China.
Source: Datamar News