The end-of-year period is increasing demand for specialty fruits across Brazil, with higher volumes moving through Ceasa wholesale markets. Merchants at the Federal District unit report that around 90% of fruit sold is domestically produced, reflecting ongoing investment in research and technology that has expanded year-round supply.
Cherries remain the main imported item, arriving from Chile, while grapes, peaches, lychees, and plums are largely sourced from Brazil. Grapes from the São Francisco Valley illustrate how new production systems now ensure a steady supply. A consumer noted that "we can find fruit all year round, thanks, of course, to technology and science that helped develop varieties for all of Brazil."
According to a wholesaler in Brasília, business increases by up to 50% in December. Another merchant added that sales depend strongly on market prices and noted, "If the prices of peaches, bananas, and grapes are reasonable, everything sells." Retailers expect a larger volume of stone fruit this season, particularly peaches and plums from southern Brazil, and anticipate a 10% rise in seasonal fruit consumption driven by lower prices compared with last year.
A survey by the Brazilian Association of Supermarkets shows an overall price increase for fruit categories compared with last Christmas. Specialty and imported fruits rose by an average of 6.7%, and dried fruits increased by 6.2%. Pineapples are retailing at around R$10 (US$1.75), a level some consumers consider high. The association noted that consumption typically rises due to holiday demand and additional income from the 13th-month salary, stating that "the consumption of premium fruits tends to increase, consolidating December as the best period for the sector."
Producers and wholesalers link improved supply stability to grower training and to the development of cultivars adapted to different climatic zones. These advances maintain market availability throughout the year and reduce the strong seasonality that previously limited the consumption of certain fruits to the holiday period. A consumer recalled past limitations, stating, "In the past, we would find some varieties of fruit at a certain time, right? Do you remember?"
Source: Band / Abrafrutas
