Agribusiness plays a central role in Goiás’s economy, representing 15% of the state's GDP. In 2023, the sector reached its highest employment level in the past 11 years, with over 1 million workers, accounting for 26.6% of the state's workforce. Between 2012 and 2023, agribusiness added 95,446 new jobs, according to data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE).

In 2022, Goiás was responsible for 9.3% of Brazil’s agricultural production value, demonstrating significant growth over recent decades. This progress is driven by modern farming techniques, cutting-edge technologies, and increased productivity. To highlight the importance of Goiás's agribusiness on both the state and national levels, the Association for the Development of Industry in Goiás (Adial) will host the 2nd Agro-Mill from October 15th to 19th. The event will bring together 12 opinion leaders who will visit Goiás’s agroindustries and discuss topics such as ESG practices, biofuels, sugar production, animal protein, grains, genetic improvement, and regenerative agriculture.

According to Adial's Council President, Zé Garrote, “Agribusiness and agroindustry are fundamental for the economic development of Goiás and Brazil. These sectors drive the economy and reinforce Brazil’s global leadership in food production.”

He emphasizes that “Goiás possesses vast natural resources. We have fertile soil, abundant water, and a hardworking, skilled population. The state’s strategic location in the heart of Brazil provides significant competitive advantages.”

Garrote also underscores that “water is an indispensable resource for development. Everything around us—from the clothes we wear to the food we consume—originates from soil and agriculture. Agribusiness already plays a significant role, but when we add value through agroindustry, the results are even better. The industrialization of agricultural products strengthens the economy, creates jobs, and promotes sustainable development.”

Market Overview

Goiás's agribusiness accounts for approximately 15% of the state's GDP, and its exports make up 96.7% of the total state exports. Goiás has established itself as a major exporter in the international market, with notable trade relationships with China, the United States, and the European Union. The sector is divided into three levels: primary (rural producers), secondary (agroindustries and inputs), and tertiary (distribution, commerce, and services), with the tertiary sector holding 38.4% of the jobs.

National Presence

Goiás’s share of Brazil’s agricultural production value increased from 3.6% in 1974 to 9.3% in 2022, according to IBGE. The state excels in the production of soybeans, corn, and sugarcane. Soybeans account for 53.7% of the planted areas, followed by corn (25.3%) and sugarcane (12.2%). Cities like Rio Verde and Jataí are national leaders in soybean production.

Workforce

The participation of women in Goiás's agribusiness has also grown. Since 2012, the number of women in the sector has increased by 56,284. In 2023, men hold 66.2% of the positions, totaling 679,188 workers, while women make up about one-third of the workforce, with 326,013 positions.

Innovation and Sustainability

Goiás’s agribusiness is increasingly linked to innovation and sustainability. Practices such as integrated crop-livestock-forest systems (ILPF) and the use of advanced technologies enhance productivity while minimizing environmental impact. The expansion of second-generation ethanol and the adoption of more efficient agricultural techniques are examples of how the state aligns production with environmental preservation.

The sugar-energy sector, particularly relevant in this context, contributes to Goiás’s and Brazil’s clean energy matrix. “Agribusiness in Goiás goes beyond food production, integrating innovation, sustainability, and socioeconomic development, consolidating its significance in the national and international landscape,” concludes Adial's Executive President, Edwal Portilho, known as Tchequinho.