Brazil is the world's third-largest fruit producer but ranks only 24th in exports, with just 2–2.5% of production shipped abroad. Annual fruit exports total around 1 million tons, generating approximately $1.3 billion. The main barrier to growth, according to industry experts, is Brazil's underdeveloped logistics infrastructure.
"The country is now paying the price for its precarious logistics infrastructure," said Jorge de Souza, technical manager at the Brazilian Fruit Association (Abrafrutas). "We need better roads, ports, and maritime routes, especially to reach distant markets like Asia."
Fresh fruit requires refrigerated—but not frozen—transport, which adds complexity. Letícia Fonseca, technical advisor for fruits and vegetables at Brazil's Agriculture and Livestock Confederation (CNA), said many countries view Brazil as logistically inefficient for fresh produce. She cited mismatched shipping schedules, cold chain limitations, and access challenges beyond urban centers as key issues.
Exporters share similar concerns. Joaquin Rey, CEO of Spanish company Kibi, which imports Brazilian melons, papayas, and limes, highlighted delays from port congestion and weather-related disruptions. "Transport outside Brazil's major cities is slow and inefficient," he said.
Patrick Berquó, business development analyst at MBR Company, noted growing weekly shipments of papayas, limes, and mangoes. He said this has helped increase global awareness of Brazilian fruits, but broader expansion still depends on overcoming logistical challenges.
Fonseca and Souza also pointed to the growers' mindset as a barrier. While Brazil's domestic market offers strong returns, it is volatile due to seasonality and climate. Fonseca argued that export markets offer more consistent opportunities. Souza urged producers to adopt a more entrepreneurial approach, saying that improving export competitiveness can also benefit the domestic market.
Brazil's fruit export portfolio is growing to include both traditional and exotic varieties. Fonseca noted increasing interest in native fruits like jabuticabas, as well as formerly imported fruits like dragon fruit and blueberries, now grown domestically.
More than half of Brazil's fruit exports go to Europe. Fonseca cautioned against market dependency and highlighted the need to recover declining exports to countries such as Thailand. Sustainability is also becoming essential, with greater demand for eco-friendly practices and packaging.
The EU-Mercosur trade deal could provide a boost by eliminating tariffs on some fruits, though Brazil will face competition from other exporters.
Fruit Attraction Brazil, now in its second edition, doubled in size since 2024 and welcomed 46 international buyers at the São Paulo Expo. Sandra Comesana of Ifema Madrid called the event's expansion to Brazil a strategic move years in the making.
Source: Datamar News