The São Francisco Valley in Brazil exhibits a robust framework for fruit cultivation, embracing research and innovation as integral components shared extensively across the production sector.
Embrapa researcher Carlos Gava notes, "A region, a country that until recently was a food importer, is now the largest food exporter in the world." Ninety percent of Brazil's exported mangoes and 98% of its grapes emanate from this valley. Businesswoman Lara Secchi highlights the area as a key player in irrigated fruit farming, describing it as a dynamic hub facilitated by substantial technological integration. Approximately 40% of produce caters to the domestic realm, while 60% is directed toward export. Secchi emphasizes, "Irrigated fruit farming plays a very important social role," underscoring its labor-intensive nature.
Beyond production, tourism thrives with visitors drawn to local wine and natural settings. Businesswoman Simone Carnieli from Serra Gaúcha expresses unexpected admiration for the region's cultural richness, attesting, "I was enchanted; Honestly, I didn't expect to find so much culture."
Source: Abrafrutas
