The Brazilian fruit sector is set to enhance its operations through a new initiative involving the Secretariat of Agriculture and Supply of São Paulo (SAA) and the Secretariat of Agriculture, Supply, and Rural Development of the Federal District (Seagri). This partnership aims to advance red fruit cultivation, with a special focus on family farming, ensuring sustainable development and increased economic opportunities for small producers.
The protocol of intentions, scheduled for formalization in March at the Fruit Attraction 2025 event, establishes a foundation for worker training, technical assistance, and knowledge exchange. The collaboration will enable both regions to leverage their strengths, boosting production efficiency and expanding market opportunities.
According to the Executive Secretary of SAA, technical cooperation in fruit growing, particularly in the red fruit sector, will drive significant improvements for producers in both São Paulo and the Federal District. The partnership represents a step toward greater innovation, ensuring that local farmers benefit from modern agricultural techniques and a stronger supply chain.
Strengthening Family Farming and Rural Development
The initiative aligns with broader efforts to enhance family farming, a key component of Brazil’s agricultural economy. By focusing on red fruit cultivation, the partnership aims to introduce sustainable practices, improve productivity, and expand access to national and international markets.
Technical cooperation between São Paulo and the Federal District will facilitate the exchange of expertise, helping farmers adopt better cultivation techniques, optimize their production, and increase profitability. The Federal District’s Secretary of Agriculture emphasized the mutual benefits of the collaboration, highlighting São Paulo’s extensive experience in agricultural production. The Federal District, in turn, will contribute its knowledge and research to support rural workers in both states.
The agreement serves as a precursor to a more extensive partnership, which will include a formal technical cooperation agreement. This broader initiative will support family farmers by providing access to resources, training programs, and improved agricultural inputs, fostering long-term growth in the red fruit sector.
Expanding the Frutas Vermelhas SP Project
The partnership builds on the success of the Frutas Vermelhas SP Project, launched in 2018, which has enabled São Paulo producers to diversify their crops and explore new business opportunities. The project currently supports 43 registered producers, helping them integrate high-value red fruits such as blueberries and raspberries into their production systems.
One of the key aspects of the project is the distribution of seedlings through the Comprehensive Technical Assistance Coordination (CATI). By offering farmers access to high-quality plants, CATI aims to stimulate market entry and encourage greater adoption of red fruit cultivation. The partnership between São Paulo and the Federal District will expand these efforts, providing additional resources and expertise to producers looking to enter the red fruit market.
Technical assistance and training programs will play a critical role in ensuring that farmers can maximize yields and maintain high-quality production standards. The initiative will focus on sustainable practices, emphasizing soil health, pest management, and efficient irrigation techniques to enhance productivity while minimizing environmental impact.
Boosting Brazil’s Red Fruit Sector
Brazil’s fruit sector has experienced significant growth in recent years, with São Paulo leading the way in exports. The state saw a 13% increase in fruit exports, with lemons and limes generating $121 million in revenue. While citrus fruits dominate São Paulo’s export market, red fruits represent an emerging opportunity for diversification and added value.
With rising global demand for berries and other red fruits, the collaboration between São Paulo and the Federal District is strategically timed to position Brazil as a competitive player in this market. By strengthening the supply chain, improving production techniques, and fostering cooperation between agricultural stakeholders, the initiative aims to boost both domestic and international sales.
Red fruit farming presents a promising opportunity for family farmers, offering high market value and strong consumer demand. The partnership will ensure that small producers receive the necessary support to enter and succeed in this growing industry. Through training, access to technology, and market expansion strategies, farmers will be able to scale their operations and increase their incomes.
Future Outlook
The formalization of this partnership at the Fruit Attraction 2025 event marks an important milestone in Brazil’s agricultural development. The initiative reflects a broader commitment to innovation, sustainability, and economic growth within the fruit sector.
By strengthening technical cooperation, expanding training programs, and supporting family farmers, São Paulo and the Federal District aim to create a thriving red fruit industry that benefits both rural communities and the national economy. The partnership sets the stage for continued advancements in agricultural production, ensuring that Brazil remains a key player in the global fruit market.
Through ongoing collaboration and investment in research and development, the initiative will pave the way for long-term success, empowering farmers with the tools and knowledge needed to compete in an increasingly dynamic agricultural landscape. As the partnership evolves, it is expected to serve as a model for similar initiatives across Brazil, promoting sustainable farming practices and driving economic growth in rural areas.
