Peanut production grows more than 100% in the last 8 years

Brazilian peanut production jumped from 346,8 thousand tons in the 2014/15 harvest to an estimated 746,7 thousand tons in the 2021/22 cycle, an increase of 115%, as shown by data from the National Supply Company (Conab). The good result is mainly a reflection of the increase in the area allocated for cultivation, which almost doubles when the two cycles are purchased.

The largest peanut producer in the country, the state of São Paulo is responsible for 92,8% of this projection, with a harvest estimated at 692,7 thousand tons and growth expected. The result represents an increase of 23,3% in relation to the previous state harvest, according to data from the 12th Grain Harvest Survey. “Peanuts stopped being a secondary crop and began to occupy new areas, both in the expansion of cultivation in rotation with sugar cane cultivation and as the producer’s main option”, ponders the Development and Strategic Support manager at Conab in São Paulo, Marisete Belloli.

Most of the product grown in the country is exported. Approximately 70% of production is destined for the international market, with European Union countries being the main buyers, particularly the Netherlands, Poland, Australia and Italy. Other important buyers are Russia, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, Colombia, South Africa and Mexico. But, in recent years, China has begun to show increasing interest in Brazilian peanuts, opening up large new markets. 

Peanuts, which were traditionally cultivated in the north of São Paulo, more specifically in the region of Ribeirão Preto and Jaboticabal, are currently planted more intensely in the northeast of the state. On the route that encompasses the cities of Marília, Tupã and Presidente Prudente, there are several peanut exporters.