Brazil stone fruit sector faces weather challenges

Brazil’s stone fruit sector remains centred on peaches, while plum production is smaller and commercial nectarine production is limited, according to a USDA FAS GAIN report.

The 2025/26 season was affected by late frosts and excessive rainfall, which reduced fruit quality and limited production in some growing areas. The impact was most relevant in southern Brazil, where most of the country’s temperate fruit production is concentrated.

Peach production remains the main segment of the stone fruit industry. Rio Grande do Sul is the leading producing state, supported by fruit for both the fresh market and the processing industry. Santa Catarina, Paraná, São Paulo and Minas Gerais also contribute to national output.

Plums are produced on a smaller scale, mainly in southern and southeastern states. Nectarines remain a niche crop, with limited commercial acreage and smaller market presence compared with peaches and plums.

Brazil’s stone fruit trade is still import-oriented. Domestic production covers part of local demand during the national harvest, but imports remain important outside the Brazilian season and for higher-value fruit. Chile and Argentina are the main suppliers due to proximity, counter-seasonal supply and established regional trade flows.

The report notes that Brazil’s stone fruit market continues to face structural limits, including weather vulnerability, fragmented production, post-harvest losses and uneven fruit quality. At the same time, demand for better-quality fresh fruit leaves room for improved varieties, handling, cold chain management and more consistent supply.

Read the full report here.

source and graphics: fas.usda.gov