Brazil fertilizer imports hit record as grain exports rise in 2025

Brazil fertilizer imports hit a record in 2025 as corn and soybean exports climbed, highlighting stronger farm demand and port activity.

Jan 26, 2026 5:16 PM

By Brazil Stock Guide – Brazil’s fertilizer imports reached a record high in 2025, reflecting stronger agricultural output and growing confidence among farmers ahead of the new crop cycle. Total imports rose to 45.5 million metric tons, surpassing the 44.28 million tons recorded in 2024, according to logistics data released by the national supply agency.

The increase followed steady purchasing throughout the year, signaling positive expectations for crop performance. Mato Grosso, Paraná and São Paulo accounted for the largest share of fertilizer consumption, underscoring their central role in Brazil’s agricultural production.

Paranaguá remained the country’s main gateway for imported fertilizers, handling 10.89 million tons in 2025. While volumes were slightly below the previous year, the port continued to dominate inbound flows. Ports in Brazil’s northern export corridor, known as the Arco Norte, expanded their role, moving 8.27 million tons, up from 7.5 million tons a year earlier. Santos, the country’s largest port complex, received 8.42 million tons, marking a decline from 2024.

On the export side, Brazil increased shipments of corn, soybeans and soybean meal during the year, driven by strong international demand. Combined exports of the three commodities totaled 172.3 million tons in 2025, a 6.21% increase from 161.6 million tons in 2024. Paranaguá and the Arco Norte ports led outbound flows, with Mato Grosso, Paraná, Goiás and Rio Grande do Sul serving as the main origins of cargo.

Corn exports reached 40.9 million tons by December 2025, exceeding the volume shipped in the same period a year earlier. The Arco Norte accounted for 39.3% of shipments, while Santos handled 35.8%. Paranaguá sharply increased its share to 12.3%, compared with just 3.1% in the previous year.

Soybean exports totaled 108.1 million tons through December, up from 98.8 million tons in 2024. Northern ports expanded their participation to 36.2% of total shipments, while Santos accounted for 32%. Rio Grande and São Francisco do Sul saw reduced shares compared with the previous year.

Soybean meal exports edged higher to 23.3 million tons in 2025. Santos remained the main outlet, followed by Paranaguá and Rio Grande, while Salvador increased its participation in national shipments.