Brazil: Heavy rainfall and strong winds in July may lead to losses

The citrus belt in São Paulo recorded strong winds and above-average rainfall in July, raising concerns among market players, as these conditions may cause losses in orchards, reduce fruit quality (Brix), and delay the harvest. This is an atypical scenario for July, which is usually characterized by dry weather in the region. On the other hand, greater water availability may favour floral induction and the development of the next crop.

However, the full extent of the impacts has yet to be assessed. These adverse weather conditions may further worsen the production outlook, which has already been affected by citrus greening (HLB), a disease that causes premature fruit drop.

Data from Inmet indicate that Araraquara (São Paulo state) recorded 86.6 mm of rainfall in July, compared to just 9.1 mm in the same month last year. In Casa Branca (SP), rainfall totaled 59.8 mm, against only 5.2 mm in July 2025.

Besides heavy rainfall, strong winds also affected central São Paulo State. In Taquaritinga (SP), for instance, the winds caused fruit (especially lemons) and leaves to fall from the trees.

US tariffs

Although orange juice remained exempt from additional tariffs imposed by the US government, orange essential oils became subject to a 12.5 % surcharge, raising concerns among exporters, as the US market is a key destination for these by-products. According to CitrusBR, the measure took effect on July 24.