Orange grove with truck collecting fresh fruit

Orange grove in Brazil with a truck collecting fresh fruit in the late afternoon, a typical scene of national citrus farming.

About this subject

Brazil is the world's largest orange producer, accounting for about 30% of global output, with São Paulo state responsible for approximately 80% of the country's citrus farming. Harvesting mainly occurs from May to January, depending on the variety, and rapid transport to juice industries is crucial to preserve quality. Trucks like the one in the image are common in São Paulo's groves, especially in regions such as Bebedouro, Araraquara, and Matão, where tropical climate and fertile soil favor cultivation. The Pera Rio orange, the most widely planted variety in Brazil, is extensively used for concentrated juice, one of the main export products of Brazilian agribusiness. Brazil accounts for over 50% of the global orange juice trade, generating billions of dollars annually. Manual harvesting is predominant, though machines are gradually being introduced to increase efficiency. The image captures the late afternoon, a time when milder temperatures reduce fruit stress and facilitate the work of harvesters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Brazil's importance in global orange production?

Brazil is the world's largest orange producer, accounting for about 30% of global output, and supplies over 50% of the international orange juice trade.

Where is citrus farming concentrated in Brazil?

Citrus farming is mainly concentrated in São Paulo state, which accounts for approximately 80% of national production, in regions such as Bebedouro, Araraquara, and Matão.

How is orange harvesting done in Brazil?

Harvesting is predominantly manual, occurring from May to January. Rapid transport to the industry is essential to maintain fruit quality.