Brazilian honey exporters face R$ 2.5 million loss after U.S. tariff hike

Brazilian beekeepers, especially those in the state of Piauí, are facing a challenging moment following the recent announcement of steep tariffs on honey exports to the United States. In just 15 days, over 152 tonnes of honey went unsold in the U.S. market, resulting in estimated losses exceeding R$2.5 million. The crisis is forcing producers to delay harvests and seek alternatives to keep their businesses afloat.

Below is a historical overview of Brazilian honey exports to the U.S. starting from January 2022. The chart was created using DataLiner data:

Brazilian Honey Exports to the U.S. – Jan 2022 to May 2025 – TEU

Source: DataLiner (Click here to request a demo)

The situation in Piauí

José Claro de Sousa, a rural producer, is among those affected by the new reality imposed by President Donald Trump’s tariff hike, which slapped a 50% duty on Brazilian exports. Just yesterday, he moved more than 600 beehives from Piauí to Maranhão in an attempt to escape the drought that has affected honey production. However, the sharp drop in prices has been alarming. Instead of the usual R$18.50 per kilo, he is now receiving purchase offers as low as R$15, prompting him to postpone the harvest that was scheduled for August 5–10.

The impact of Trump’s tariff hike

The introduction of the tariff has generated uncertainty in the honey market. Although many shipments have been canceled, contracts with importers remain active. Samuel Araújo, Brazil’s leading honey exporter through Grupo Sama, explained that the United States accounts for approximately 75% of Brazil’s honey exports. He also emphasized that the majority of Brazil’s honey suppliers are small-scale family farmers, who make up around 85% of the production chain.

Seeking new markets

In response to the challenges posed by the U.S. market, Grupo Sama is working to diversify its exports. In addition to the United States, the company is expanding its presence in Europe, targeting countries such as Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Denmark, as well as Canada, Japan, China, and the United Arab Emirates. Araújo highlighted the high quality and sustainable production of Brazilian honey, which has earned international recognition. “We are expanding our reach and considering new strategies to overcome the temporary suspension of U.S. orders,” he said.

The quality of Piauí’s honey

In recent years, Piauí has gained recognition for producing high-quality honey, especially certified organic honey. In 2024, while not the top producer in Brazil, the state led the country’s honey exports to the U.S. The bond between Piauí and the American market is strong, with about 85% of the state’s honey exports going to the U.S., even though it ranks only 22nd in overall exports to the country, according to Islano Marques, head of the International and Market Department at FIEPI.

The future of Brazil’s beekeeping sector

While the new tariffs pose a significant challenge, they also present an opportunity for Brazilian beekeepers to rethink their strategies. With the need to restructure logistics and forge partnerships with countries that offer more regulatory stability, producers may find new prospects outside the U.S. market. Innovation and diversification are now crucial for the industry’s survival and growth.

In short, Trump’s tariff hike is a wake-up call for Brazilian beekeepers. They will need to quickly adapt to the new market conditions and possibly reassess their pricing and export strategies. Only time will tell how trade relations will evolve, but for now, the outlook calls for caution and adaptation.

Source: Diário do Povo