BRAZIL

Feedback from the Trade on Their Plans and Interest in the USA Pear Season:

As the season has reached its end, traders were happy with the quality of the product they received. The prices were considered high, and importers mentioned that they could have handled increased Bartlett volume if prices had been lower. As this was a comeback season for USA Pears, many traders wanted to wait for the outcomes of the arrivals, quality-wise, as in recent seasons, many loads did present quality issues, mainly fruit that did not ripen.

Expectations for Any Freight or Logistics Challenges:

Logistics still play an important role for this market. Transit to the south Atlantic is a challenge under current sea freight conditions, slow vessels and problematic intermediary ports and changing of vessels. The Houston and North Florida options were very welcome in terms of quality (transit of about 35 days) but high in costs. These logistics need to be reevaluated. There were three loads that used the traditional Panama Canal route, and the result was double the timing to get to Brasil - 59 days.

Opportunities in Your Market for Specific Varieties, Sizes, and Grades:

Traders had a good experience this season, and they are optimistic that they can do better in the next.

Update on the Competition in the Market:

Argentina has started earlier this year with Bartletts. Harvest began January 6, but shipments took a little bit to hit the market. Due to climate issues, some are afraid there will be some struggle on pricing. The initial prices were high (US$24 to US$26 - FOB - Bartletts #01). There is some Portuguese presence in the market, as well.

Political or Economic Issues Impacting Imports, Retail, or Consumer Behavior:

In October 2026 there will be the presidential election, which has been the focus of the current government since last year. Economically, the main concerns are how the international environment will do in 2026. The internal numbers show some stability, but conditions are very susceptible to the international environment.

Other Brief Comments:

Retailers reported that Christmas sales were the worst sales in decades. Many factors contributed to this. Also there is a perception by retailers that the last two years represented several challenges to the grocery retail sector. The increase of number of stores and a change to "Cash&Carry" retail system also do not help the produce sector. The climate around the world also presented some big challenges: crop prices were high, allied to increasing overall costs (labor, transportation, etc.).