The uncertain future of Brazil's mangoes amid 50% U.S. tariff threat

Brazil's mangoes are facing a shaky beginning to their export season due to the negative impacts of looming U.S. tariffs. However, despite multiple signs of uncertainty, the largest Latin American country is expected to increase its shipped volume by 35% year-over-year, with shipments arriving in the fourth week of August.

The latest Mango Crop Report reminds us that the Brazilian mango season is set to start August 1, and that shipments from Mexico and the Dominican Republic are winding down. From July 19 to 26, Mexico shipped more than 3,6 million boxes, while the Dominican Republic shipped 14,633.

According to the report, the three main mango varieties shipped to the U.S. market are Kent (72%), Keitt (20%), and Ataulfo/Honey (8%). There is also a limited supply of Tommy Atkins, Haden, Mingolo, Nam Doc Mai, Mallika, Manila, and Banilejo.

The Brazilian mango season is expected to last until the last week of November, and the country is projected to ship 11.9 million boxes by the end of it. The country’s main export varieties are Tommy Atkins, Kent, and Keitt.

But this year will be different. Brazil's mango industry has expressed ongoing concern about the United States' 50% tariffs—a levy that some key products have avoided, but mangoes are still subject to. Luiz Roberto Barcelos, Institutional Director at the Brazilian Fruit Growers and Exporters Association (Abrafrutas), said the tariffs "couldn’t have come at a worse time."

"With a 50% tax, Brazilian fruit is practically unmarketable in the U.S.," he said. "Everything was ready for harvest, space booked on the ship, packaging purchased, protocols followed, everything lined up to start the season."

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