Pernambuco regions drive cultural recognition and US$ 1 billion fruit exports

The semi-arid regions of Pernambuco, Brazil, are demonstrating significant cultural and economic diversity. In the Sertão do Pajeú, a region comprising 17 municipalities, local culture is gaining national recognition. The Brazilian Chamber of Deputies recently approved a project to recognize ‘Poesia do Pajeú’ as a manifestation of national culture, a proposal that has moved to the Senate.

Economically, the São Francisco River valley, particularly around Petrolina, has transformed into a major agricultural powerhouse. Through scientific advancements by Embrapa Semiárido, such as the use of plant regulators to control flowering, the region can produce crops like mangoes and grapes year-round.

In 2024, fruit exports from this region reached approximately US$ 1 billion, serving over 50 countries. The Submédio do Vale do São Francisco is responsible for 91% of Brazil's mango exports and 98% of its grape exports. This productivity contributes to a record-breaking period for Brazilian fruit exports, with the United States remaining a key market.