Bean health break begins today in Goiás

Producers from 57 municipalities in Goiás must follow the rules of the sanitary break for beans, which began today in Goiás. The measure aims to combat whitefly and the Golden Mosaic virus, which threaten common bean plantations (Phaseolus). The action is determined by Normative Instruction No. 03/2024 of the Goiana Agency for Agricultural Defense (Agrodefesa), part of the State Program for Pest Prevention and Control. The sanitary break is mandatory and requires the elimination of all bean plants, cultivated or volunteers.

Between September 20 and October 20, producers in municipalities such as Abadiânia, Cristalina and Formosa must eliminate bean plants. In some cities, such as Anhanguera and Catalão, sowing will be allowed from October 6, due to an earlier calendar. Agrodefesa believes that producers in these locations did not have enough time to adjust planting, following changes implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture in June.

The sanitary break is a measure of Integrated Pest Management, essential to prevent economic losses caused by the whitefly and the Golden Mosaic virus. José Ricardo Caixeta Ramos, president of Agrodefesa, reinforced the importance of this action to avoid losses to producers in Goiás. The virus can cause losses of up to 100% of production.

Exceptions may be granted by Agrodefesa for sowing in specific situations, such as for scientific research or production of genetic seeds. However, these cases must be requested 30 days in advance and require a Term of Commitment and Responsibility. Daniela Rézio, Plant Health Manager at Agrodefesa, explained that these authorizations will be granted based on technical-scientific data that justify the need.

Agrodefesa also emphasizes that the registration of bean crops remains mandatory throughout the state. Even in places where the sanitary gap has been lifted, the Agency must identify and monitor the planted areas.