More than US$1.2bn of fresh fruit shipped to global markets during 2023

Brazil exported more than 1m tonnes of fresh fruit worth a record US$1.2bn in 2023 according to national fruit association Abrafrutas. Shipments grew 26.73 per cent in value and 6 per cent in volume compared to the previous year.

Ship carrying Brazilian fruit

The association said the results reflect the diversity of the country’s fruit offer, as well as the continued growth and recognition of the quality of Brazilian products in global markets.

Abrafrutas president Guilherme Coelho praised “the tireless efforts” of Brazil’s fruit growers. “They dedicate their lives to growing the highest quality fruit, with respect for the environment and in the relentless pursuit of excellence. We are extremely proud of this milestone and will continue to support and strengthen our fruit industry,” he said.

Mangoes continued to lead the export charge. Shipments increased by 51.52 per cent in value and 15 per cent in volume last year, reaching more than 266,000 tonnes.

Melons were second most exported product in 2023, exceeding 228,000 tonnes worth US$189m. This represented growth of 20.93 per cent in value and 2.61 per cent in volume.

Avocados were amongst the fastest growing category, with exports up by 128 per cent in value and 143 per cent in volume last year. Abrafrutas said the increase reflect not only the growing popularity of avocado, but also the consolidation of this fruit as a popular choice both in terms of flavour and nutritional value.

Abrafrutas, together with the government and Brazilian export and investment promotion agency ApexBrasil, have worked hard in recent years to open up new export markets for Brazilian fruit.

The association said the results reaffirmed Brazil’s position as “one of the main players in the global fruit market , standing out not only for the quantity, but for the quality and diversity of its productions”.

“Abrafrutas, committed to promoting sustainable and prosperous fruit farming, celebrates this record as a significant step towards an even more fruitful future,” Coelho said.