The Amazon is a crucial battleground in the global fight against climate change. It is often called "the lungs of the planet" due to its essential role in the planet's oxygen and carbon dioxide cycles.
The rainforest is home to about three million species of plants and animals, and one million indigenous people. Around 60% of it is located in Brazil.
Brazil's environment ministry said it was the lowest recorded deforestation rate in the last five years. Though smaller than in previous years, the deforested area is still more than six times the size of New York City.
Growing inspection efforts by environment watchdog Ibama were key in bringing about the fall, the environment ministry added.
Source: BBC