Technological opportunities stand out amid climate challenges and credit shortages in the 2024-25 Harvest

The start of the 2024/2025 harvest already points to a scenario of great challenges for Brazilian farmers. After the end of the soybean health gap in the second half of September, rural producers are already facing unexpected climate complications, with delays in soybean and corn planting, especially in the Brazilian Cerrado regions, especially in the North and Central-West regions. The warmer weather and irregular rainfall, especially in the South, add uncertainty, making this one of the most difficult harvests in recent years.

In addition to the climate, the scarcity of rural credit is another obstacle. With stricter environmental and regulatory requirements, many farmers have found it difficult to access rural credit from the harvest plan, which is yet another challenge just days before their operations begin. The scenario requires greater guarantees and more rigorous processes, which makes financing more limited.

However, the opportunities have not been completely overshadowed. The rise of digital and online credit offers a promising alternative for producers. Platforms that sell agricultural inputs and also offer the possibility of redeeming agronomic services, such as soil analysis, have been gaining ground and are proving to be essential in a year where reducing expenses is crucial.

Rational use of inputs and innovative technologies

With rising costs and scarcer credit, the efficient use of fertilizers, pesticides and other inputs becomes even more relevant. The adoption of digital technologies, such as aerial application of pesticides by drones and also the use of biological products, has been advancing among Brazilian farmers. Biofactories, which allow the production of biological inputs on the farms themselves, are a growing trend, providing a sustainable and economical alternative.

This innovation is helping producers maximize the efficiency of their operations and reduce costs at this time. In addition, connectivity in rural areas, with 24-hour internet access, has driven the use of digital solutions for more precise planting, something that has been gaining momentum and optimizing management in the field.

Crop marketing and the global scenario

In the international market, competition with the United States, which is harvesting a record crop, adds another challenge to the marketing of soybeans and corn. This could impact commodity prices and force Brazilian farmers to rethink their sales strategies.

Although crops such as rice, beans and coffee are offering good remuneration prospects, soybeans and corn continue to be the focus of the greatest difficulties, both in production and marketing. Even so, technological innovation and the rapid adaptation of farmers have been decisive factors in overcoming a more adverse scenario.

In simple terms, we can say that the 2024/2025 harvest season is beginning with major challenges, given the unstable climate, scarce credit and strong global competition. However, at the same time, important opportunities are emerging through technological solutions and innovation in agricultural management, which offer alternatives for producers to overcome difficulties and move forward in a resilient manner.

*Per Robson Rizzon, Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of Orbia and rural producer