On 18 August, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva hosted the official visit of Ecuadorian President Daniel Azin. According to Uol, Lula reaffirmed the importance of South American integration and underlined the interest in strengthening trade between the two countries.
In an official statement, the Brazilian president confirmed the resumption of Ecuadorian banana imports, which have been suspended since 1997 due to phytosanitary restrictions. Initially, only dehydrated bananas will be allowed, while fresh banana imports will remain under evaluation until the end of the year.
Producers in Brazil's main banana-growing regions monitored by Hortifrúti/Cepea have expressed concern over the decision. The entry of Ecuadorian bananas could create competitive pressure on domestic prices and impact market dynamics. In addition, producers point to phytosanitary risks, particularly Tropical Race 4 of Fusarium oxysporum, which has been reported in areas of Peru bordering Ecuador.
Dirceu Colares, president of Abanorte (Central Association of Fruit Growers of Northern Minas), stated that actions are being coordinated with Conaban (National Confederation of Banana Producers) to defend domestic production and oppose the liberalization measures.
Source: HF Brasil