RN fruit exports expected to exceed US$300 million in 2025 despite high tariffs, says secretary

Rio Grande do Norte is expected to record a new milestone in fruit export revenue in 2025, according to the state Secretary of Agriculture and Fisheries, Guilherme Saldanha, in an interview with Dê o Play, from Jovem Pan Natal.

The secretary stated that the export value could surpass US$300 million next year, driven by a strong performance in the second half of the year.

“In 2018, we exported around US$140 million in fruits. Last year, we reached US$252 million, an increase of more than 70%. Based solely on the first-half performance this year, we can already project US$300 million in fruit exports,” Saldanha said.

According to data from the Executive Committee of Fruit Growing in Rio Grande do Norte (Coex-RN), in 2024 the state shipped approximately 286,000 tonnes, generating around US$200 million with products such as melons, watermelons, mangoes, and papayas. The expectation is for a 10% growth in 2025, with the resumption of the Port of Natal as a strategic outlet for production.

Check below the main destinations for Brazilian fruits in 2025. The data is from DataLiner:

Main destinations for Brazilian fruits | Jan to Jun 2025 | TEU

Source: DataLiner (Click here to request a demo)

Saldanha emphasized that fruit shipments through the Port of Natal have regained momentum, accounting for one-third of the combined exports from Rio Grande do Norte and Ceará. The secretary also highlighted state government measures, such as negotiating tax exemptions for vessels supplying the capital of Rio Grande do Norte, attracting new operations, and reducing logistics costs for producers.

In addition to production aimed at foreign markets, the secretary noted that small producers play a crucial role in supplying school meals, thereby helping to stimulate the local economy and ensuring fair prices for those dependent on family farming.

Source: 98 FM

Sharing is caring!