Brazil’s fruit exports hit a record high; Arabs are buying more

São Paulo – Fruit exports from Brazil set a record high in 2023, when shipments to Arab countries also grew. According to the Brazilian Fruit Exporters’ Association (Abrafrutas), Brazil exported USD 1.2 billion in 2023, up 26.7% from 2022. In volume, 1,085 million tonnes were exported, up 6% from a year earlier. (Pictured, mangoes from Brazil.) Data compiled by the Market Intelligence department of the Arab-Brazilian Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) show that fruit exports to the Arab countries grossed USD 17.5 million last year, up 36% from 2022, for 11,700 tonnes, up 95.3%. The trade balance with Arabs, however, saw a deficit, as Brazil imported USD 28.6 million worth of fruits, up 106.5%, or 32,900 tonnes, up 104.7%. The deficit was USD 11.1 million. Brazil imported mostly frozen fruit and citrus from Arab countries. According to data from Abrafrutas, the United Arab Emirates was the top Arab exporter of Brazilian fruits at USD 11.5 million and 7,420 tonnes. Best sellers were apples ...