Santa Catarina remains the national leader in apple production

This week, International Apple Day was celebrated – a crop that brings important nutritional benefits, in addition to playing a fundamental role in the economy of Santa Catarina, especially in the mountains, the largest apple-producing region in the state and in Brazil. The cold climate and geographical characteristics offer ideal conditions for growing high-quality apples. 

Data from a survey conducted by Epagri indicate that apple production in the Santa Catarina mountains generates R$1,5 billion per year. The 2022/2023 harvest reached a Gross Production Value (GVP) of R$740 million. The "national apple capital" – São Joaquim – is also located in the Santa Catarina mountains. This recognition is the result of the dedication of local producers, who use innovative techniques to ensure the best harvests.

The president of the Rural Union of São Joaquim and vice president of finance of the Agriculture and Livestock Federation of the State of Santa Catarina (Faesc), Antônio Marcos Pagani de Souza, highlights the economic importance of the fruit for Santa Catarina. “Our state accounts for a significant volume of Brazilian production and, in addition to São Joaquim, other municipalities such as Fraiburgo and Bom Jardim da Serra, also stand out in apple production. With this, we boost the economy and generate jobs and income”, he states.

The sector is driven by initiatives that aim to improve productivity and expand export markets. The Faesc/Senar System provides Technical and Management Assistance (ATeG) in the fruit growing sector and successfully serves producers of this crop. Partnerships between the state government and entities such as the SC Apple and Pear Producers Association (Amap) also ensure the sustainability of the sector.

For the president of the Faesc/Senar System, José Zeferino Pedrozo, Santa Catarina has much to celebrate this month, which marks International Apple Day. “The state proudly confirms its prominent position on the national scene, consolidating itself as a reference not only for the quantity, but also for the quality of its harvests, which makes us very proud. In addition to boosting the economy and generating jobs, apple production in the Santa Catarina mountains strengthens the state's position in the international market, highlighting its strategic importance in the global production chain,” he concludes.