Brazil’s Onion Imports Surge Nearly Fivefold in March

The Brazilian onion market remains unstable in early 2025, with high import volumes and an upward price trend. According to the National Supply Company (Conab), Brazil’s onion imports in March were nearly five times higher than in February. The country imported 3,471 tons of onions in February, jumping to 19,728 tons in March.

According to the Center for Advanced Studies in Applied Economics (Cepea), Argentina was Brazil’s top onion supplier in March, accounting for nearly 58% of total imports, followed by Chile with 42%. Cepea’s Hortifrúti division notes that both countries have significant stockpiles and the potential to continue supplying the Brazilian market.

“In an unstable market with large import volumes, Brazil faces a challenging scenario that directly reflects global supply and demand dynamics. This context demands continuous strategic adaptation to ensure the sustainability and balance of the national agricultural sector, with tactical management and maximum protection of crops,” said José Rodolfo Forte, an agronomist and Market Development Specialist at Ascenza Brasil.

Last year, Brazil imported 257,400 tons of onions—a 92% increase compared to the previous year. Despite a projected 44% increase in the 2024/2025 domestic harvest, estimated at 127,600 tons by Conab, imports are expected to remain strong.

Cepea forecasts a reduction in planted onion areas this year, especially in the Cerrado and Northeast regions, due to expectations of a good harvest in the South. However, extreme heat in February and March has compromised crop quality even in Santa Catarina, where a high supply was expected from cities like Ituporanga and Lebon Régis. Stockpiles that were expected to last until mid-May or early June are now unlikely to hold out, according to Cepea.

In this context, buyers in the region are turning to foreign onions, particularly from Argentina and Chile, which offer better quality. These internal supply variations and international market conditions impact Brazil’s onion sector.

Source: Notícias Agrícolas

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