IBRAF reported “disappointing” sales for Brazilian fruit last year, but hopes are high for this year.
In 2009, Brazil exported fresh fruit with a total value of US$559 million (£358m), representing a decrease of 22.7 per cent. The country also exported US$2 billion in processed fruit.
Tapping into new markets including the United Arab Emirates, the UK, Russia, Canada and Hong Kong, this year Brazil again hopes to achieve the volume of sales it had in 2008.
“For 2010, Brazil has set the goal of expanding its presence on the international market”, said Valeska de Oliveira, executive manager of the IBRAF Brazilian Fruit Institute, who organised a joint stand for Brazilian exporters this year for the eighth time.
After revolutionising the Brazilian market over the past few years, the red Niagara grape also made its first overseas appearance at Fruit Logistica and will be available for the first time for worldwide sale. The grape is characterised by its soft pulp and sweetness.
