At the start of the 2025/26 season, apple growers in southern Brazil expected higher production, following crop losses over the previous two years. With the beginning of harvest activities, orchards have already shown increased output, confirming expectations of a higher supply compared to recent seasons.
In this context, inventories rose throughout the first quarter, contributing to lower prices. In March, across the average of grading regions, the price of large Gala apples, category 3, was BRL 73.04 per 18-kg box (US$14.49), down 29.60% compared to the same period last year and 10.61% below the average of the last four years.
According to agents consulted by Hortifrúti/Cepea, lower prices are linked to the market's difficulty in absorbing the higher volumes offered, particularly category 3 fruit. Increased Fuji harvests have added pressure, as growers and packers with limited storage capacity are releasing older stored fruit to make room for newly harvested volumes.
Price recovery is expected once harvesting activities are completed, at the end of the first half of the year. This period typically supports domestic supply adjustment and may lead to improved price levels.
For May, the lower price scenario may continue, reflecting the high volume of fruit available, particularly apples that have been stored for longer periods.
Source: HFBrasil
