In Brazil, the states of Ceará, Rio Grande do Norte, Pernambuco, and Bahia are major producers of melon and watermelon. Other fruits such as pineapple, lime, and mango are also a large part of the Brazilian export range. However, the Brazilian Association of Producers and Exporters of Fruits and Derivatives (Abrafrutas) projects a reduction of around 15% in exports.
According to Luiz Roberto Barcelos, Institutional Director of Abrafrutas and a partner at Agrícola Famosa, Brazilian fruits have, in general, experienced a reduction in exports. “In this post-pandemic scenario, it is expected to see lower export volumes because production costs are very high,” he commented, adding that maritime freight costs are negatively impacting the industry.
Barcelos comments that, unlike other market niches, consumers started purchasing more fruits during the pandemic.
Source: datamarnews.com