Twenty Brazilian companies are part of the mission to Madrid, where guava from Carlópolis, in Paraná, will be among the country’s representatives at Fruit Attraction from September 30 to October 2. Participation was confirmed in a public notice from the Brazilian National Confederation of Agriculture and Livestock (CNA), which selected 20 companies. The Carlópolis Agroindustrial Cooperative (COAC), holder of the Geographical Indication (GI) for guava, is one of those chosen.

This will be the third time that Carlópolis guava is present at Fruit Attraction, following earlier participation in 2017 and 2019. According to Odemir Capello, consultant at Sebrae/PR, the cooperative’s focus is on direct exports. “Now, we’re returning for the 2025 edition with a very clear objective: to export directly to buyers and ensure that the fruit reaches its destinations at the ideal stage for the end consumer,” he said.

COAC representatives are evaluating new logistics approaches, including the possibility of supplying fruit at different ripening stages. “Currently, we ship the fruit to the foreign market practically green, as this is a preference among intermediaries who prefer a longer shelf life. If we can sell directly in the future, we want to deliver riper fruit, which we believe will be even more flavorful for the consumer,” said cooperative president Inês Yumiko Sasaki.

Between 2020 and 2024, COAC exported more than 340 tons of guava abroad, with Europe as the main destination. Weekly shipments are made to France, England, and Portugal, with smaller volumes sent to the Netherlands and Canada.

Currently, transport is carried out by air. Capello noted that sea transport, about eight times cheaper, is under discussion. “The mode of transportation directly influences the transport time and also the type of controlled atmosphere used to ensure product quality. When we participate in a fair like this, in addition to expanding our consumer markets, we have the opportunity to negotiate logistics and ensure the quality of the fruit at the destination,” he said.

Technical studies on controlled atmosphere storage for guava are underway. “We have some examples of how Brazilian apple, peach, and persimmon producers use them. We’re going to Spain to promote our product and also participate in business rounds to perhaps find the ideal partner to make our logistics dream a reality,” said Eduardo Aparecido da Silva, representing the cooperative.

Carlópolis guava is GlobalGAP certified and registered as a Geographical Indication (GI). These certifications ensure food safety, environmental protection, and product traceability, supporting access to international markets.

Source: ASN Paraná/Tatiane Salvático