São Paulo updates orange tree removal rules for greening

São Paulo has implemented new regulations regarding the removal of orange trees affected by greening (HLB). In municipalities where the incidence of symptomatic plants exceeds 10%, mandatory removal is now limited to trees up to three years old. Previously, the requirement applied to symptomatic plants up to eight years of age.

In municipalities with a low incidence rate of up to 10%, all symptomatic trees must still be eliminated. Producers are required to monitor the transmitting insect every 15 days and maintain detailed documentation of inspections and chemical applications for five years. The costs associated with management and the removal of trees remain the responsibility of the producer, with no compensation provided for losses.

In 2026, greening affected 48.08% of orange trees in the citrus belt of São Paulo and the Triângulo/Sudoeste Mineiro region, a slight increase from 2025. The highest incidence rates were recorded in Limeira (82.10%), Porto Ferreira (72.43%), and Avaré (69.50%).