Sinergias entre o programa agroamigo e a agricultura familiar no semiárido do Brasil, no período de 2005 a 2024

Abstract

This study investigates synergies between Agroamigo resources and the performance of rain- fed agriculture in the Semi-Arid Region, focusing on rice, beans, cassava, and corn crops, which are predominant in the region and sensitive to climatic variations. The states of Bahia, Ceará, Maranhão, Pernambuco, and Piauí are evaluated, as they account for the largest number of operations and resources in 2024 within the BNB’s area of operation. The objectives of the research are: i) to evaluate territorial expansion, contract dynamics, and financial resources, as well as economic relevance; ii) to assess the relationships between variables that influence agricultural production; and iii) to compare the Productivity Index (INPR) and Aggregate Production Value per hectare (VPA) before and after the implementation of the Program. and Experimental (2005–2024), the period following its implementation. The INPR and VPA are estimated to assess structural and productive changes associated with Agroamigo. The results show the program’s expansion, with the number of contracts increasing from approximately 18,000 to nearly 688,000 and total funding reaching approximately R$60 billion. However, real growth was limited compared to the minimum wage. Extensive coverage was observed in the Semi-Arid region, along with interdependence among crops, influenced by structural and technological factors. The INPR demonstrated good explanatory power, particularly in Ceará, Pernambuco, and Maranhão. The impacts were mixed, with income gains in Ceará and productivity gains in Maranhão, but unfavorable results in the other states. The overall conclusion is that Agroamigo contributed to boosting the productivity of family farming in the Semi-Arid region, although its effects depend on local structural and climatic conditions to translate these gains into increased income, as is expected in agricultural activities in general.