Brazil nuts: EU imports highlight loss

August 12, 2024 at 11:10 AM , Der AUDITOR
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BRUSSELS. EU imports have hit new lows for Brazil nuts. For producers in South America it has evidently become a bit more difficult to retain their foothold in the lucrative European agri-food market this year.

Re-exporters gain market shares in EU

EU imports have slumped to new lows for Brazil nuts this year so far. In terms of volume imports stand at a seven-year low of 8,245 mt and in terms of value at an eleven-year low of EUR 47.276 million (USD 51.657 million). Shipments from all three producing countries, Bolivia, Brazil and Peru, have declined by double digits as compared with last year. Contrary to this, shipments from the re-exporting countries Chile, the USA and the UK, have risen by stunning amounts. Germany is the leading EU importing member state and accounts for 42% (3,450 mt) of the total volumes imported, followed by the Netherlands with 37% (3,070 mt) and Spain with only 6% (513 mt).

EU Brazil nut imports (kg)

Country

2023

2024

Diff.

Bolivia

11,306,470

6,945382

-38.6%

Brazil

788,987

606,883

-23.1%

Peru

728,083

552,044

-24.2%

Chile

47,736

89,168

86.8%

USA

43

48,008

111,546.5%

UK

4,058

2,866

70.6%

Canada

1,108

653

-41.1%

Pakistan

-

150

-

China

2,116

60

-97.2%

EU

3

20

566.7%

Others

17,225

32

-99.8%

Total

12,895,829

8,245,266

-36.1%

DG Taxud Customs Surveillance system, provisional data, 01/01-10/08
HS Code 08012200 – Fresh or dried Brazil nuts, shelled

EU imports reflect trading dynamics

This dent in EU imports runs contrary to developments in production. Bolivia’s crop was pegged 16% higher than last year at 66,000 mt according to International Nut and Dried Fruit Council projections issued in April. Bolivia, however, exports large volumes via Chilean ports, which explains the rise in imports from here. Peru’s output was projected 10% higher at 16,500 mt, whereas the estimates for Brazil’s crop ranged 17% lower at 7,500 mt. Exporters in Brazil are keen to regain a stronger foothold in the US and the EU as recent media reports indicate. Yet, judging by the upsurge in shipments from the US to the EU it rather appears to be the case that US exporters are reaping the main profits.

In addition, the challenges indigenous communities in Brazil such as the Wai Wai are confronted with in trying to participate in lucrative bioeconomy by selling Brazil nuts directly to companies at higher rates have been highlighted by local new agencies. Scientists researching Brazil nut plants in Colombia also require financial government support as Forbes reports.

 

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