Brazil’s commitment to ensuring global food security while prioritizing sustainability took center stage at the International Agricultural Forum (FIAP) held on September 9th. The event brought together prominent figures from the Brazilian agricultural sector, including Minister of Agriculture Carlos Fávaro and governors of major agricultural states.
During the opening session, Fávaro announced exciting news for the Brazilian agricultural industry. He declared the resumption of beef exports to Canada and the opening of new markets in Morocco and Colombia for Brazilian DDG (Dried Distillers Grains). This expansion signifies Brazil’s growing role in meeting global food demands.
However, the forum also addressed critical challenges facing the industry. Fávaro firmly opposed any notion of reducing agricultural production, a topic often debated internationally, and instead emphasized Brazil’s dedication to sustainable intensification, particularly in degraded areas. “We will increase production in a sustainable way. Brazil’s strategy is to intensify production in degraded areas,” he stated.
Other leaders echoed concerns about climate change and the need for sustainable practices. Mauro Mendes, governor of Mato Grosso, outlined three key challenges: combatting illegal deforestation, developing an effective agricultural insurance system to address climate change impacts, and ensuring a robust response to global demands. Mendes emphasized the importance of holding the world accountable for climate commitments made at international conferences.
Helder Barbalho, governor of Pará, a state known for its vast rainforest, highlighted the significance of bioeconomy investments and the urgent need for carbon market regulation. He argued that this regulation would empower local communities to generate income from both agricultural activities and forest conservation.
Eduardo Riedel, governor of Mato Grosso do Sul, stressed the need for Brazil to take a strong stance within the G20 to reduce trade and environmental barriers. He emphasized the importance of asserting Brazil’s commitment to sustainability while advocating for fair trade practices and addressing concerns like traceability and the European Union’s zero-deforestation requirements.
The FIAP served as a platform for a diverse group of stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue about the future of agriculture. Jorge Viana, president of APEX, highlighted the necessity of global collaboration in tackling climate change. Daniel Carrara, vice-president of CNA, advocated for improved access to agricultural technologies for small and medium producers. Vilmondes Tomain, president of Famato, reaffirmed Mato Grosso’s producers’ dedication to sustainability. And Júlio Cargnino, host and president of Canal Rural, emphasized the role of G20 Agro in ensuring global food security through international cooperation.
The International Agricultural Forum, held in advance of the G20 Agro Working Group meeting, serves as a crucial platform to bring key issues of agribusiness to the forefront of the G20 agenda. This event was promoted by Canal Rural and supported by key institutions, including the Brazilian Confederation of Agriculture and Livestock (CNA), the Mato Grosso Agriculture Federation (Famato), the National Confederation of Industry (CNI), CropLife, the Support Foundation for Research in the Northern Export Corridor (FAPCEN), and Azul Linhas Aéreas. JBS, Apex Brasil, John Deere, and Senar MT provided sponsorship, and CNN Brasil provided content support.
