Brazilian honey exports fall in volume, but revenue rises on international market appreciation

Brazilian honey posted a significant increase in export revenue in 2025, despite a decline in shipment volumes. According to data from Agrostat Brasil, of the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAPA), the country shipped 32,545 tonnes of natural honey between January and November 2025, a 6.5% decrease compared with the same period last year.

Despite the lower volume, total revenue reached US$109.75 million, up 20.5% year on year. The result was driven by higher international prices, reflecting tighter global supply and rising average export prices.

The national average export price of Brazilian honey reached US$3,372.26 per tonne—equivalent to US$3.37 per kilogram—an increase of 29.2% compared with 2024. The scenario reflects reduced global supply, while Brazilian honey continues to enjoy a strong reputation for quality and faces stricter trade barriers in some markets.

At the state level, Minas Gerais remained Brazil’s leading honey exporter in 2025, with 6,993 tonnes shipped and revenue of US$23.73 million.

Piauí ranked second, with 6,504 tonnes and revenue of US$21.46 million, followed by Paraná, which took third place with 5,811 tonnes exported and revenue of US$19.49 million—more than double the amount recorded in 2024.

Santa Catarina and Ceará rounded out the top five exporting states, both posting higher average export values compared with the previous year.

The United States continues to be the main destination for Brazilian honey, accounting for 84.8% of total exports, equivalent to 27,606 tonnes and US$92.8 million in revenue.

However, the sector has been heavily impacted by the 50% tariff imposed by the U.S. government, in effect since August 6, 2025, following President Donald Trump’s decision. The measure directly affected honey exports, causing sharp fluctuations in shipment volumes.

In August, importers brought forward purchases, pushing shipments to 2,941 tonnes, 25% higher than in the same month of 2024. In September, the effects of the surcharge became clear: volume fell 19%, although revenue increased, supported by a 37.4% rise in the average price per tonne.

The negative impact intensified in the following months. Even after the U.S. government reduced tariffs on other Brazilian products in November, honey remained subject to a 50% duty, limiting its competitiveness.

In November 2025, U.S. imports of Brazilian honey totaled just 1,433 tonnes, a 62.9% drop in volume and a 69.9% decline in revenue compared with the same month in 2024.

The Brazilian Honey Exporters Association (Abemel) warns that the continuation of the tariff is a major concern for producers. In November, the average price per tonne fell to US$2,204.90, down 18.6% year-on-year. In addition to the 50% surcharge, Brazilian honey was already subject to an additional 8.04% tariff for entry into the U.S. market.

Despite trade barriers, Brazil’s beekeeping sector has shown resilience, supported by high-quality products and rising international valuations. It is expected that new markets will be developed in 2026, reducing dependence on the United States and strengthening export diversification.

Source: Portal do Agronegócio