Brazil's trade surplus soared by 70.2% in October compared to the previous year, surpassing economists' forecasts, according to official data released Thursday and reported by Reuters.
The country recorded a $7 billion trade surplus for October, exceeding the $6.2 billion expected by analysts surveyed by Reuters. This growth was fueled by a 9.1% increase in exports, while imports decreased slightly by 0.8%, said the Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade and Services.
This shift contradicts the earlier 2025 trend where imports grew faster than exports, showcasing the resilience of Brazil’s economy amid high interest rates aimed at controlling inflation.
Export gains were largely driven by higher sales of major commodities such as crude oil, iron ore, soybeans, coffee, corn, and beef.
Despite October’s strong results, Brazil’s trade surplus for the year to date was $52.4 billion, down 16.6% compared to the same period in 2024.
This decline was influenced by falling exports of sugar, dairy, and meat, even as cereal output reached record levels.
"Brazil's trade surplus jumped 70.2% in October from the same month last year, beating economists' estimates." – Reuters
Summary: Brazil’s trade surplus surged in October due to rising exports to China offsetting sharp declines in US sales, highlighting mixed trade dynamics amid economic challenges.