Brazilian banana exports down 22 percent in April on increased competition
Brazilian banana exports peeled back in April after a stronger start to the year, as rising regional supply and increased competition weighed on international demand.
The Latin American giant exported about 5,952 short tons of bananas in April, down 22 percent from March, according to data from Hortifruti Brasil. FOB revenue fell 30 percent to $24.13 million, based on figures from Comex Stat.
Exports also decreased 43 percent compared with April 2025, Hortifruti’s assessment noted.
The report said Brazil could face additional “pressure” in May as both domestic production and supply from other exporting countries continue to increase.
Brazilian banana exports brace for further pressure
If competition from regional suppliers remains strong, the industry could see excess fruit diverted into Brazil’s domestic market, adding further pressure to prices.
Uruguay remained the leading destination for Brazilian bananas in April, accounting for 42.27 percent of shipments. Argentina followed with 38.64 percent, while the Netherlands represented 12.56 percent.
According to Hortifruti, persistent rain and high temperatures during the Southern Hemisphere summer accelerated harvesting in northern Santa Catarina. Producers had expected the supply to increase by mid-April, but harvesting intensified earlier, beginning at the start of the month.
Production increased simultaneously in competing exporting countries, including Paraguay, Ecuador, and Bolivia, creating greater fruit availability in regional export markets.
The supply uptick reduced demand for Brazilian bananas and pushed exporters to accept prices below those available in the domestic market.
The sector also continues to face logistical disadvantages compared with neighboring suppliers, leading some importers to favor geographically closer sources.
*Photos are referential.
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