Brazil is boosting its presence in the global avocado market with the Hass variety
Ligia Falanghe Carvalho, President of Abacates do Brasil, tells us, “We are the sixth largest avocado producer in the world, and the avocado industry has experienced remarkable growth in recent years. With an annual growth of 20% in the expansion of planted hectares and an annual production of 44 million tons of avocados of various varieties, the country has stood out for its recent focus on the Hass variety, producing 1 million exportable tons.”
A decade ago, driven by the Hass avocado boom, Brazilian growers began planting and improving their cultivation techniques, facing unique operational and logistical challenges compared to other traditional varieties. In this context, the Abacates do Brasil association has played a crucial role in promoting best practices among growers and encouraging domestic consumption of this increasingly popular variety.
Significant growth in Hass avocado acreage is projected for the coming years, driven by increasing interest from local citrus growers in venturing into this lucrative crop. Key target markets for Brazilian Hass avocados are the domestic market and exports to Europe and Argentina, representing 60% and 40% of sales, respectively.
Despite the wide Hass avocado production window in Brazil (February to September), exports are concentrated mainly in the months of February to April. This year, thanks to favorable weather conditions, dry matter was obtained earlier than usual, allowing exports to begin in the last week of January. This strategic advance has been crucial in compensating for the shortened season caused by Peru's early entry into the market.
In summary, Brazil is consolidating its position as a key player in the global avocado market, boosting the production and export of the Hass variety to meet growing domestic and international demand. With a focus on quality, innovation, and sustainability, Brazil's "green gold" promises to continue shining on the world agricultural stage.
