Black pepper surges in Espírito Santo, hits export record, and strengthens the state’s global position

Black pepper is experiencing one of the strongest periods in its history in Espírito Santo. In 2025, the state’s spice exports reached US$347 million, the highest value ever recorded, a 113% increase from 2024.

The growth consolidated Espírito Santo as Brazil’s leading force in the international black pepper market. The state currently accounts for 69% of all Brazilian exports of the product and has expanded its presence in strategic markets across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

Production grows and reshapes the agricultural landscape

The figures reveal a structural transformation in Espírito Santo’s rural sector. Since 2014:

* The planted area has increased by 658%;
* Production has grown ninefold;
* and average productivity reached 3,634 kilograms per hectare in 2024.

What was once a secondary crop in northern Espírito Santo has become strategically important to the state’s agribusiness sector, becoming the third-largest generator of export revenue, behind only coffee and pulp production.

Today, black pepper produced in Espírito Santo is exported to 59 countries.

High prices drove expansion

The main driver behind this growth has been the sharp rise in international prices.

In 2024, Espírito Santo’s black pepper was exported at US$4.32 per kilogram. In 2025, the price jumped to US$6.16, an increase of 43% in just one year.

In the domestic market, prices exceeded R$40 per kilogram during some periods in 2024, reflecting a combination of:

* production losses caused by heat and drought;
* reduced supply;
* and strong international demand.

The scenario encouraged new investments and accelerated the expansion of black pepper plantations in Espírito Santo.

Vietnam remains the main global competitor

Despite the positive outlook, producers in Espírito Santo are closely monitoring the international market.

Vietnam, the world’s largest producer and exporter of black pepper, exported 31,000 tonnes in April 2026 alone, a 16.8% increase compared to the same period the previous year.

Vietnamese pepper is being traded at nearly the same price level as the Brazilian product on the international market, between US$6,100 and US$6,200 per tonne.

With greater global supply, international buyers are beginning to pressure prices, especially during Vietnam’s harvest season.

Mercosur-European Union agreement expands opportunities

Another factor considered strategic for the sector is the agreement between Mercosur and the European Union.

Black pepper was included in the category that provides for a gradual reduction in import tariffs, with full exemption expected by the fifth year of the agreement.

The European market is seen as one of the most promising for the growth of Espírito Santo’s black pepper exports. Germany, for example, imported 2,568 tonnes of pepper in February 2026 alone, a 57% increase compared to the same period the previous year.

Industry expectations point to continued growth in European demand over the coming years.

Quality and strategy will be decisive

Experts believe the strong appreciation cycle has not yet ended but is entering a more mature phase.

With more producers entering the market and global supply increasing, competitive advantages will increasingly depend on:

* productivity;
* quality;
* traceability;
* and international negotiation capacity.

For producers in Espírito Santo, the challenge now is to transform the current favorable moment into sustainable growth and consistent long-term profitability.

Source: Revista Conexão ES

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