Drought reduces soybean and corn productivity in MS

The Mato Grosso do Sul Soybean Producers Association (Aprosoja/MS) has published a Technical Study on the Impact of Drought on the State's Crops. The study analyzed the 2023/2024 soybean and corn harvests, as well as the 2024/2025 soybean harvest, revealing significant production losses due to irregular rainfall and high temperatures during the period. 

According to the report, the 2023/2024 soybean harvest reached 4,2 million hectares planted, but average productivity was 48,84 bags per hectare, one of the lowest in the last 10 years. The state's total production was 12,3 million tons, an 8% decrease compared to the previous cycle. The drought particularly affected crops in the center and south of the state, regions that account for more than 80% of the cultivated area.

"It's essential to understand how prolonged periods of drought have been influencing agricultural dynamics in Mato Grosso do Sul. The areas most sensitive to water scarcity have shown clear signs of reduced production efficiency, posing challenges not only to crop yields but also to the economic viability of many producers," notes Gabriel Balta, technical coordinator of Aprosoja/MS.

In the second corn harvest of 2023/2024, the situation was also critical. Irregular rainfall left the cycle with precipitation far below the required level (600 mm), which directly impacted the quality and quantity of the harvested grain.

For the 2024/2025 soybean harvest, Aprosoja/MS identified new challenges, given the continued adverse weather conditions. The organization emphasized the importance of using management, irrigation, and climate monitoring technologies, as well as the need for public policies to support producers to reduce the impacts of climate variability.

"The study demonstrates the resilience of producers, but also highlights that climate is a determining factor in agricultural production. It's crucial to expand the debate on water management and the adoption of technologies to ensure the sector's sustainability," says Jorge Michelc, president of Aprosoja/MS.

The survey was carried out through the Siga-MS and Produtividade projects, which monitor crops in 79 municipalities in the state, gathering field and remote sensing information. 

The study was delivered to the State's political leaders and formed the basis for the text of Bill 5.122/2023, which provides for the liquidation, amnesty and renegotiation of rural credit debts, Rural Product Certificate (CPR), suppliers and cooperatives.