Brazil is the world’s largest producer and exporter of oranges, thus consolidating its position as a global leader in citrus fruit production. With a diverse range of varieties, the country supplies the domestic market and key international destinations such as Europe, the United States, and Asia. Some cultivated varieties include Pera orange, Bahia orange, Lima orange, and the exotic Cara Cara orange.
According to estimates from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Brazil’s orange harvest for the 2025-26 season is expected to reach 320 million 40.8 kg-boxes, equivalent to 13 million tons. This volume means an increase compared to the previous season (12.3 million tons), further consolidating the country as the world’s leading producer.
Planted area: 590,000 hectares.
Estimated domestic consumption: 2.5 million tons.
Production of frozen concentrated orange juice (FCOJ): 1.01 million tons, an 8.8% increase.
Estimated exports: 953,840 tons, a 9.11% growth, reinforcing Brazil’s leadership in the global market.
Pera Orange: The Juice Industry’s Pillar
Pera orange is one of the most widely grown varieties in Brazil and is essential for the juice industry. Its high juice yield and naturally sweet flavor ensure strong demand in both international and domestic markets.
Primarily grown in Northeastern and Northern Brazil, where it thrives in ideal climate and soil conditions.
Produced year-round, ensuring a steady supply to the market.
Thin and easy-to-peel skin, making it also popular for fresh consumption.
Bahia Orange: The Traditional “Navel Orange”
Bahia orange, known internationally as “Navel Orange,” is highly prized for fresh consumption due to its sweet taste and seedless nature.
Recognized for its distinctive “navel” at the fruit’s tip.
Thick and easy-to-peel skin, making it easy to consume.
Mainly grown in São Paulo and Bahia, with most harvests carried out between June and September.
Heavily exported to the United States, Europe, and Asia.
Lima Orange: Smoothness and Versatility
Lima orange is known for its low acidity and mild flavor, making it a popular choice for children, the elderly, and those with digestive sensitivity.
Popular in Latin America and Europe, it is used for direct consumption and in juice and dessert production.
Primarily grown in São Paulo and Rio Grande do Sul.
Harvested between March and June, ensuring supply during the off-season of other varieties.
Cara Cara Orange: The Sophisticated Red-Fleshed Variety
Cara Cara orange stands out for its reddish pulp, due to its high level of lycopene, a powerful natural antioxidant. Originating in Venezuela, this variety has a robust growth potential in Brazil.
Sweet flavor and low acidity make it ideal for premium consumption.
Highly valued in the United States and Europe, it is often used in gourmet dishes and desserts.
Harvested between June and July, coinciding with peak demand for exotic citrus fruits.
Grown in warm and humid regions, though it develops a more intense color in milder climates.