Impacts of COVID-19 on Brazilian banana farming

ABSTRACT

This bulletin discusses the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the production, distribution, and consumption of bananas, which are an important crop in the Brazilian agricultural sector. The temporary closure of commercial points and institutions has caused significant impacts on the banana production chain, which was already facing other challenges such as phytosanitary issues and water restrictions. The bulletin highlights the nutritional benefits of bananas and presents short and medium-term alternatives to mitigate the negative impacts of the pandemic on banana producers. It also emphasizes the need for actions to strengthen the entire banana chain considering the "new normal" that is expected to emerge.