Chinese-manufactured agricultural drones have been gaining a presence in Brazil, accompanying the growth in the use of these devices in crop management. Among the brands present are DJI and XAG, which provide precision farming solutions.

According to a survey by the National Union of Agricultural Aviation Companies, Brazil ended 2025 with 10,357 agricultural drones registered with the National Civil Aviation Agency, up from 355 in 2021. Data compiled by the entity also indicate that, as of June 2025, DJI accounted for 84% of registered spraying drones in the country, while XAG accounted for 7%.

The equipment is used for the targeted application of herbicides, insecticides, fungicides and foliar fertilisers. The technology eliminates the need for heavy machinery to circulate in certain areas, proving useful in coffee plantations and hard-to-reach terrain. XAG cites experience on a farm cultivating soybeans, maize, sorghum and coffee. DJI notes the use of its Agras line in pasture management.

This expansion constitutes a new facet of the technological rapprochement between Brazil and China. Bilateral agricultural co-operation now extends, beyond the trade of agricultural products, to mechanisation, digitalisation and precision farming solutions.

(Source: Agência Brasil China, on 13 August)