According to Brazilian Fruit Growers-Exporters Association (Abrafrutas) executive director Eduardo Brandão, fruit exports from Brazil to Arab countries are expected to increase next year. The main fruits exported to this region (as well as Asia) are melons, grapes, mangos and limes. Year to date through October, 725,000 tonnes were exported. Brandão: “We expect an increase in fruit exports to the Middle East bloc (Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and United Arab Emirates). And the Asian continent, too, particularly China and South Korea. Our fruits have quality and are greatly appreciated in these countries.”
The association points out a year-on-year 2.8% increase. Brandão: “Exports are expected to peak in the last quarter, when we usually see a larger demand from other countries. We intend to end the year with a revenue at USD1 billion. If we can’t reach it, we’ll be very close. It will depend on the exchange.” The Middle Eastern market potential stands out, as it imported around 15,000 tonnes of fruits in 2019. Among the Arabs, the UAE was the top buyer in 2019, reaching 13th place in the overall ranking of Brazilian fruit importers.