Brazilian growers warn of risks as Ecuadorian banana imports begin

Brazilian producers and lawmakers are raising concerns after the government authorized the entry of bananas from Ecuador. The approval follows a court ruling that removed previous sanitary restrictions. For now, only dehydrated bananas are allowed, while authorities complete a risk assessment to determine whether fresh bananas can also be imported in the future.

Federal congresswoman Rosana Valle (PL-SP) warned that traditional banana-producing regions in São Paulo, such as Cajati and Vale do Ribeira, could be negatively affected. She submitted a formal request to the Ministry of Agriculture asking for measures to protect local growers. In a message posted on social media, Valle said that allowing imports could “harm Brazilian producers and put crops at risk of disease.”

Agricultural organizations share these concerns. The Brazilian Confederation of Agriculture and Livestock (CNA) and several banana industry associations recently met with the Ministers of Agriculture, Carlos Fávaro, and Agrarian Development, Paulo Teixeira, to discuss possible impacts.

Their main worry is the introduction of Fusarium TR4, a soil-borne disease that has caused serious losses in major banana-producing countries. The fungus has not been detected in Brazil, and industry groups stress that keeping it out is essential to protect local plantations, especially varieties from the Cavendish group, which are widely consumed across the country.

Growers and sector representatives are urging the government to maintain strict monitoring and preventive measures while the risk analysis for fresh bananas continues.

source: abrafrutas.org

photo: chasingchanelle.com