In 2023, Brazil’s mango export industry reached a historic milestone, yielding a record revenue of approximately US$ 315 million. This success was driven by a significant increase in export volume, which was about 15% higher than the previous year, totaling approximately 266 thousand tons. These numbers, publicized by the Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade, and Services and processed by the Mango Market Observatory of the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA), reflect Brazil’s prominent place as one of the world’s leading producers and exporters of mangoes.
Key Figures of Brazilian Mangoes
The Vale do São Francisco region in Northeast Brazil accounted for over 90% of the national production of mangoes allocated for export. Among these, the Bahia and Pernambuco states stood out with production shares of 47.36% and 45.42%, respectively. The success of Brazilian mango exports can be ascribed to the country’s ability to supply mangoes throughout the year, especially in the Vale do São Francisco region, where favorable climatic conditions and irrigation technology allow for consistent and high-quality production.
Socioeconomic Impact of the Mango Industry in the Northeast
In addition to the export records, the Brazilian Northeast’s mango industry significantly impacts on the region’s socioeconomic development. Mango production creates thousands of local jobs, directly in the agriculture sector and others such as transportation and packaging. All this promotes social inclusion, reduces poverty, and strengthens the cultural identity of rural communities. Farmer cooperatives have been created to promote sustainable mango production and ensure fair prices for producers. Furthermore, the growth of the mango industry has spurred investments in infrastructure, such as roads and warehouses, improving connectivity and easing market access for rural communities.
The Importance of Research and Innovation in the Brazilian Mango Industry
EMBRAPA and other Brazilian research institutions play a crucial role in introducing new cultivation techniques, improved mango varieties, and sustainable agricultural practices. Through research programs, scientists work to increase plant resistance to diseases, improve efficiency in using natural resources such as water and fertilizers, and develop more sustainable cultivation methods. Remarkable examples include the development of mango varieties resistant to pests and diseases—such as the mango mite—and remote sensing technologies to monitor plant health and optimize agricultural management. Additionally, technological innovation has helped farmers improve production efficiency, reduce costs, and increase the quality of products, ensuring the sector’s competitiveness in the international market.
Promising Outlook for 2024
The outlook for 2024 is promising, with the first semester marked by favorable prices and high export rates. The ongoing international demand for Brazilian mangoes, combined with the country’s ability to adapt to constantly changing market conditions, positions Brazil as a global mango industry leader. With ongoing investment in technology and research to ensure the long-term competitiveness and sustainability of the mango industry in the Northeast region and throughout the country, this sector will continue to thrive!