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One of the world’s top agribusinesses, which handles approximately 10 % of global agricultural trade, along with a leading global citrus producer, is set to implement drip irrigation across 2,400 hectares of orchards in São Paulo, Minas Gerais, and Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. The partnerships were signed with multinational Rivulis, one of the market leaders with the broadest and most complete portfolio of localised irrigation solutions on the market, with over 30 years of experience in Brazil and almost 100 years worldwide.

Drip irrigation is a method of localised irrigation that saves water and nutrients. This technique is based on applying water and nutrients at a low flow rate and high frequency. Water droplets are applied at short intervals, allowing application closer to the root in an efficient manner and avoiding wetting other parts of the plant.

Drip irrigation is particularly beneficial for citrus trees, which are highly sensitive to water stress. Accurate application of water at all stages of crop development, especially during the critical fruiting period, can significantly improve fruit size, quality, and uniformity, leading to higher yields and sustainability of farming practices.

According to Eran Ossmy, president of Rivulis’ Micro Irrigation Division, this strategic move by major citrus players is proof of the companies’ commitment to sustainability and the efficiency of their processes, such as optimising resources and water together with increasing productivity. “We are strongly positioned to support these challenges, as we offer comprehensive micro irrigation services, including design, installation, and support in the field. These systems are recognised for their efficiency in the use of resources and ability to distribute nutrients through fertigation,” he said.

Challenges and opportunities

The citrus industry, which is crucial to the national economy, generating around USD 2 billion annually and supporting around 200,000 jobs in the state of São Paulo alone, is expected to see a drop in production this year. Brazil is projected to record a 24 % reduction in its citrus harvest compared to the previous season.

Among the factors behind this downturn is an old enemy of the sector, the Asian citrus greening. Also known as Huanglongbing (HLB), the disease is a bacterial infection that seriously affects plants, becoming one of the two most serious problems worldwide due to its rapid spread and destructive impact on fruit.

Another challenge facing the sector is climate instability, with severe droughts and irregular rainfall throughout the harvest. “The use of advanced irrigation solutions helps to reduce these impacts, generating more security in production. That’s why the big companies in the sector are adopting this technology to help the country remain at the forefront of world production,” concludes Ossmy.