At the SAE Brasil Symposium, Rodrigo Junqueira addresses industry cycles

At the opening of the 16th SAE Brazil Agricultural Machinery Symposium, Rodrigo Junqueira, AGCO general manager for South America, shared an insight into the natural and economic cycles that shape agriculture and the agricultural machinery industry. The event takes place today at the CIEE-RS Banrisul Theater, in Porto Alegre.

With a career that spans three decades, Junqueira brought to light the importance of resilience and adaptation, hallmark characteristics of the Brazilian people and, particularly, of agribusiness professionals.

Initially, he reflected on the cycles of life, comparing them with the seasons and the fluctuations in the agricultural industry. He highlighted that life is made up of cycles, in which people and companies must learn to adapt. Junqueira illustrated this idea with the theory of the Setennials, which suggests that every seven years we undergo physical, mental or spiritual renewal. This perspective offers a vision of continuous growth and adaptation.

In this context, Junqueira explored the evolution of agriculture in technological cycles, from artisanal agriculture to the arrival of agriculture 5.0. This new cycle is characterized by automation and an emphasis on sustainability. He highlighted that agriculture is constantly evolving, and the introduction of new technologies has been crucial to improving efficiency and reducing costs. For AGCO, this transition to agriculture 5.0 represents an opportunity to help farmers maximize their production in a more sustainable and efficient way.

In a panorama of economic fluctuations, Junqueira emphasized that moments of crisis are nothing new for the agricultural industry, but rather opportunities for learning and innovation. He emphasized the importance of unity and alignment between the different actors in the agricultural production chain to overcome these challenges. Adequate preparation and strengthening partnerships with suppliers are key to facing difficult cycles and making the most of recovery periods, he explained.

Junqueira also addressed the vital role of mechanization in the growth of Brazilian agriculture. Comparing Brazil's situation with that of the United States, he pointed out that the country has a great opportunity for growth, especially considering the need to renew the agricultural machinery fleet, which is mostly still made up of equipment that is more than 15 years old. use. The new generation of farmers, more familiar with technology, is accelerating this renewal process, which will be crucial for the industry's resumption of growth.

He also expressed cautious optimism regarding the future, especially for the year 2025. He believes that, with an adjustment in commodity prices and more favorable weather conditions, the industry will be ready for a new cycle of growth. To this end, he highlighted the importance of maintaining strong collaboration with suppliers and continuing to innovate to quickly meet farmers' demands.

Finally, Junqueira made a point of mentioning the commitment of Massey Ferguson, one of AGCO's main brands, to offering a complete portfolio that serves everything from small to large farmers. He highlighted the company's continuous effort to update its products to make them more accessible and efficient, always with the support of a network of employees dedicated to providing the best possible service.