Harvested mainly from March to June, persimmon is a fruit that has earned its place in Brazilian agriculture due to its smooth flavor, adaptability to local climates, and high market acceptance. Grown primarily in the Southeast and South of the country, Brazilian persimmons are cultivated in different varieties, including Rama Forte, Fuyu, and Giombo.
Key Production Areas
The state of São Paulo leads national production, accounting for over half of the country’s yield. Cities such as Mogi das Cruzes, Itatiba, and Pilar do Sul are home to well-established production areas supported by robust logistics networks.
In Minas Gerais, Turvolândia stands out as the state’s main hub for persimmon. With approximately 200 producing hectares, the city is responsible for nearly 50% of the state’s output.
Other important producing states include Paraná and Rio Grande do Sul, where cooler climates favor cultivating non-astringent varieties, suitable for domestic markets and international trade.
Sustainability and Good Practices
Persimmon cultivation in Brazil increasingly follows sustainable production systems. Many farms implement Integrated Fruit Production (IFP) protocols, including conscious use of inputs, biological pest control, soil conservation, and full product traceability.
In addition to IFP, practices such as cover cropping, organic fertilization, and efficient irrigation have gained ground in several regions, helping reduce environmental impact and improve soil health. Processing initiatives that turn surplus fruit into value-added products like vinegar and dried persimmons also help to reduce food loss and boost profitability across the value chain.
Increasing Export Potential
Brazilian persimmon exports have increased in recent years, particularly of the Fuyu variety, appreciated for its firmness, sweetness, and non-astringency.
Current export destinations include Canada, European Union countries, Japan, the United Arab Emirates, and China. With regular harvests, favorable weather conditions, and evolving agricultural practices, Brazilian persimmon is gaining traction in global markets. Regional diversity, combined with investments in quality and sustainability, reinforces the role of Brazilian fruit farming in supplying safe, traceable, and high-value food products.