Deloitte projects Brazil’s tobacco exports will surpass $3 billion in 2025
According to projections by Deloitte, Brazil’s tobacco exports are expected to exceed $3 billion in 2025, reflecting strong growth in both volume and value and reinforcing the country’s position as the world’s leading tobacco exporter.
In the first quarter of 2025, Brazil exported 104,000 tons of tobacco. While this volume represents a slight decrease of 1.78% compared to the same period in 2024, the value of exports increased by 12.85%, reaching $744 million.
Using data from the Ministry of Development, Industry, Trade, and Services, Deloitte projects that Brazil will surpass the $3 billion mark in tobacco exports for the first time this year.
Last year, Brazil came close, exporting 455,000 tons of tobacco and generating $2.977 billion in revenue. This year, the country is expected to break the $3 billion barrier decisively, cementing its position as the world’s largest tobacco exporter. Deloitte estimates growth of 10% to 15% in both volume and value.
Top destinations for Brazilian tobacco
Brazilian-produced tobacco is exported to more than 100 countries. In the first half of 2025, the main buyers were China, Belgium, the United States, Indonesia, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates.
According to Valmor Thesing, president of the Interstate Tobacco Industry Union (SindiTabaco), confidence in Brazilian tobacco is directly linked to the country’s production model. “We rely on the Integrated Tobacco Production System to ensure quality standards and efficiently meet the needs of our international clients,” he said.
Economic importance
With an export value exceeding $3 billion, tobacco plays a significant role in Brazil’s economy. In 2024, the sector generated approximately R$12 billion in revenue for rural producers and R$17 billion in taxes paid to the Brazilian government. The industry also sustains a large ecosystem of jobs, businesses, and suppliers.
Rio Grande do Sul accounts for the majority of Brazilian tobacco exports. In the first half of 2025, the state shipped 188,300 tons, totaling $1.2 billion, representing around 13% of its total exports.
“The tobacco sector has a direct impact on the local economy in Rio Grande do Sul, driving production chains and promoting development in many rural regions of the state,” said Thesing.
