Port delays threaten performance of tobacco exports in 2025

Brazilian tobacco exports are expected to surpass US$3 billion by the end of 2025, according to a survey by Deloitte in partnership with companies associated with SindiTabaco. The result, representing growth of up to 20% in volume and up to 6% in value compared to 2024, may, however, be affected by logistical bottlenecks at ports and trade disputes with the U.S. market — two factors raising concern within the sector.

According to data from MDIC/ComexStat, between January and September, Brazil exported 376.9 thousand tons of tobacco, a 19.23% increase over the same period in 2024. Exports totaled US$2.35 billion, a 16.22% annual increase. The country is expected to maintain its global leadership for the 33rd consecutive year, with highlights including shipments to Belgium, China, Indonesia, the United States, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates.

Check below a history of Brazilian tobacco exports since January 2022. The chart was prepared with DataLiner data:

Brazilian Tobacco Exports | Jan 2022 to Aug 2025 | TEU

Source: DataLiner (Click here to request a demo)

Dispute with the United States

The U.S. market, a traditional buyer of Brazilian tobacco, is currently facing uncertainty. In 2024, the country imported 40,000 tons, valued at US$255 million — about 9% of Brazil’s total tobacco exports. This year, up to August, shipments reached 28 thousand tons, totaling US$173 million — but 12 thousand tons remain on hold due to the additional tariff imposed by the U.S.

According to SindiTabaco president Valmor Thesing, the situation worries both producers and industries. “We shipped what was possible up until August, when the tariff took effect. Now we have cargo ready but halted. Without a quick solution, we could see negative effects both in the fields and in the factories,” he warned.

Congested ports increase costs and delay shipments

Another bottleneck threatening the sector’s performance is port logistics. More than 90% of Brazil’s tobacco exports leave through the Port of Rio Grande (RS), where new TECON rules have shortened the deadline for container entry, forcing companies to seek external storage areas — increasingly scarce and expensive.

According to Thesing, some containers have been idle for more than 40 days awaiting shipment. “Brazilian coastal terminals are operating above capacity, with quay congestion, canceled vessel calls, and a shortage of empty containers — all of which disrupt export flows and increase operating costs,” he explained.

Production remains strong in the field

Despite the challenges, national production remains robust. In the 2024/25 crop year, 525 municipalities in the South produced tobacco — 206 in Rio Grande do Sul, 188 in Santa Catarina, and 131 in Paraná — totaling 720 thousand tons and generating R$14.58 billion for integrated producers, according to Afubra data.

Source: Olá Jornal

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