Watermelon production in Goiás increased in 2024, consolidating the state as Brazil's leading producer, according to data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics. Harvest volume reached 270,500 tons, a 9.6 per cent rise over the past decade. The value of production also reached a new high, increasing 134.9 per cent over the same period to R$273.3 million (US$51.5 million).
According to the Agricultural Market Intelligence unit of the Goiás Department of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply, the growth reflects investments in genetic improvement, particularly for seedless watermelon varieties. Breeding work has focused on sweetness, firmness, and shelf life to meet retail and export requirements. This has increased the competitiveness of producers in domestic and international markets.
Pedro Leonardo Rezende, head of the department, said the results "reinforce the capacity of Goiás producers to innovate, invest in technology, and achieve efficiency." He said public programs such as Social Credit and FCO Rural support inclusion for growers.
Uruana remains the leading municipality for watermelon production in Goiás, accounting for 32.6 per cent of the state's total in 2024. Jussara ranked second, while Santa Fé de Goiás recorded the largest year-to-year increase after doubling its output.
Exports between January and September 2024 totaled US$270,100, the highest level in six years. Most of the crop remains in the domestic market, but the rise in shipments indicates further opportunities for Goiás in international trade. Current export destinations include Mercosur members Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. The United Arab Emirates recently entered the market and is projected to be the destination with the highest returns per ton for 2025.
Producers and regional authorities expect continued demand growth and further opportunities as improvements in genetics, supply chain management, and market diversification shape the state's position in Brazil's watermelon sector.
Source: Cora News Agency / Abrafrutas
