The prolonged drought in the Center-West and in the MATOPIBAPA region (Maranhão, Tocantins, Piauí, Bahia and Pará) presented challenges to farmers, delaying the planting of soybeans, corn and cotton. According to the National Supply Company (Conab), Mato Grosso, an important producer, records a 12% delay in sowing compared to the previous harvest. In the states of MATOPIBAPA, planting is only in its initial phase.
However, there is a light at the end of the tunnel for these areas affected by prolonged drought. The expectation is that the month of November will bring intense rains, news long awaited by farmers.
The longer than usual drought is exacerbated by the climate phenomenon El Niño, which affects both the Central-West and MATOPIBAPA. The delay caused the need for replanting in some areas of Mato Grosso. Interestingly, the same phenomenon is responsible for the intense rains in the southern region of Brazil. The good news is that rainfall is expected to arrive, which is motivating farmers to intensify planting.
Growing expectations for the 2023/2024 grain harvest in the Midwest
Even with the delay in rain in some regions of the Central-West, the National Supply Company maintains firm optimism regarding the 2023/2024 grain harvest. The institution estimates a total harvest of 317.5 million tons, consisting of:
- 162 million tons of soybeans;
- 119.4 million tons of corn;
- 7.29 million tons of cotton.
It is important to note that the state of Mato Grosso plays a crucial role in production, being responsible for 69% of the total cotton harvest, 38% of the total corn harvest and 27.4% of soybean cultivation. MATOPIBAPA states play a crucial role in total cotton production, with Bahia contributing 1.54 million tons. Furthermore, they represent 11.3% of national corn production and 15.7% of soybeans.
Iran Santana, CCO at ORÍGEO, highlights the growing role of states such as Bahia, Maranhão, Mato Grosso, Pará, Piauí, Rondônia and Tocantins in national agricultural success. In fact, it highlights the greater productivity and sustainability previously achieved in these states.
So, with the forecast rains, the hope of a bumper harvest is stronger than ever, bringing relief to farmers and optimism to the agricultural sector.
Source: agrolink | Aline Merladete
