India becomes a key customer for São Paulo agribusiness

India has been gaining prominence as a destination for São Paulo state agribusiness exports and now holds a strategic position in the state’s trade balance.

Data from the Agricultural Economics Institute, or IEA-APTA, linked to the São Paulo Agriculture Secretariat, show that trade with the Asian country reached about 2 million tonnes and $906.5 million in 2025.

India is now the second-largest destination for São Paulo agribusiness exports in Asia, behind only China, and ranks fourth overall among the state’s export markets. The rise is notable given that just five years ago the country ranked only 19th.

India is going through a period of strong economic expansion, which is increasing its consumption capacity, analyst José Rita Moreira said.

“Brazil grew 18% over the last five years, while India grew 55%. That shows they are eager to consume, they have resources, and they need products.”

Sugar leads, but diversification remains a challenge

The main product exported to India is the sugar and ethanol complex, which accounts for 76.8% of the total, or $696 million. It is followed by soybean oil at $89 million and plant-based chemical products at $33 million.

Datamar’s maritime cargo throughput data points to a 915.3% increase in Brazilian sugar export volumes to China in the first two months of 2016. The chart below shows the monthly export volumes:

Sugar Exports to India | Jan 2023 – Feb 2026 | WTMT

Source: DataLiner (click here to request a demo)

According to APTA director Carlos Nabil Ghobril, the growth is linked to the profile of the Indian market.

“India is now a major power, with the world’s largest population, nearly 1.5 billion people, and the fourth-largest economy globally. It is a strategic partner for us.”

Despite sugar’s prominence, specialists warn that exports remain concentrated in primary products.

“What is lacking is Brazilian marketing that shows the value added of what we produce. We have much more to offer beyond commodities,” Moreira said.

Cotton stands out

Among agricultural products, cotton has been a standout. Exports to India rose 160% in one year, from 5,000 tonnes to 15,000 tonnes.

According to Ghobril, that increase is tied to the quality of São Paulo cotton and changes in India’s supplier base.

“São Paulo cotton is of superior quality, which supports our exports.”

He also highlighted producers’ technical expertise, which strengthens both competitiveness and the sustainability of production.

Strategic ties drive growth

The increase in exports also reflects closer diplomatic and economic ties between Brazil and India, both members of BRICS.

Trade missions, official visits and events such as the Brazil-India Agri Innovation Day have reinforced cooperation, including in agricultural research.

The outlook is for continued growth, with room to diversify exports further to include pulp, citrus, wood and essential oils.

There is also potential for animal protein, although trade barriers still limit that market.

“India does not buy Brazilian chicken because of high tariffs. There are ongoing negotiations to reduce them, which could open a new and promising market,” the professor said.

Source:  G1

Sharing is caring!