Fruit exports withstand U.S. tariff hike with strategy

Two months after the start of the tariff hike imposed by the United States, Brazil’s fruit export agribusiness is showing strength and adaptability. Even in the face of surcharges reaching 50%, shipments of mangoes, grapes, and orange juice have maintained solid performance, though with tighter profit margins.

According to Hortifruti Brasil magazine, published by the Center for Advanced Studies in Applied Economics (Cepea) at Esalq/USP, the balance for the period shows resilience in volume but pressured profitability. The analysis highlights that the sector is entering a new phase, marked less by euphoria and more by strategy and innovation.

Mango: the positive highlight
Among the main products, mango was the standout. Benefiting from the early end of Mexico’s harvest and the high quality of Brazilian fruit, the country managed to expand shipments to both the United States and Europe. Large exporters, such as Special Fruit, maintained contracts and partnerships that ensured stability and reinforced the São Francisco Valley’s role as a center of excellence in the production and export of tropical fruits.

Below is a history of Brazilian fruit exports via the Port of Pecém, a traditional gateway for Brazilian fruit exports. The chart was prepared with data from DataLiner:

Fruit Exports via Port of Pecém | Jan 2022 to Aug 2025 | TEU

Source: DataLiner (Click here to request a demo)

Grapes: a challenging market
Grapes, on the other hand, faced one of the most difficult moments of the past decade. The North American market — the main destination for candy varieties — virtually closed after the imposition of tariffs, forcing the sector to seek alternatives. Part of the production was redirected to Europe, Argentina, and the domestic market, which mitigated losses but did not prevent a decline in profitability. Now, exporters are focusing on 2026, with diversification strategies and incentives for domestic consumption.

Orange juice: partial relief
In the case of orange juice, the scenario was less adverse. The exemption from the 40% tariff maintained the flow of exports to the United States, but by-products such as oils and meal remain penalized by the 50% rate. Cepea notes that the contrast between products within the same production chain reinforces the urgency of bilateral agreements and consistent trade policies to preserve Brazilian competitiveness.

Strategy and prudence on the horizon
The study concludes that the fruit export sector is going through a moment of transition and learning. Companies have shown the ability to adapt quickly, but the sustainability of exports will depend on innovation, logistical efficiency, and the strengthening of alternative markets.

Source: Conexão Safra

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