Dairy Industry Becomes Key Economic Player in Manoel Ribas
The dairy industry in Manoel Ribas, a municipality in Paraná, Brazil, has significantly risen in economic importance, now ranking second only to soy in its contribution to the local agricultural economy. According to preliminary data released by the State Secretariat of Agriculture and Supply (Seab), the dairy sector generated a gross production value of R$ 127.6 million in 2025. This figure represents 20.8% of the municipality’s total agricultural economy, which amounts to approximately R$ 612 million. In comparison, the leading sector, soy, accounted for R$ 202 million in the same year.
The growth of the dairy industry in Manoel Ribas has been notable. In 2020, the gross production value from dairy farming was R$ 64.1 million, indicating that the sector nearly doubled its financial contribution over five years. This economic expansion is paralleled by an increase in physical production, with the volume of milk rising from 38.6 million liters in 2020 to 47.8 million liters in 2025.
The local government has played a crucial role in supporting this growth through increased investments in the dairy sector. Mayor José Carlos Corona highlighted the municipality’s commitment, stating that investments in the dairy supply chain have grown significantly during his administration. Annual spending has increased from R$ 100,000 to over R$ 700,000, focusing on improving the productivity and infrastructure of dairy farms.
The Porteira Dentro program, initiated by the current administration, provides structural support to dairy producers. The municipality assists in constructing silage storage facilities, installing pipelines and sheds, and paving farm access roads, which facilitates the transportation of milk. Additionally, investments have been made in purchasing quality semen, nitrogen, and containers to enhance cattle genetics and dairy productivity.
Mayor Corona emphasized the impact of these initiatives, stating that they have significantly contributed to boosting production and improving the genetic quality of the livestock. This, in turn, has positively affected the monthly income of dairy farmers, with the broader economic effect extending beyond the farms. A significant portion of the local economy is intertwined with dairy production, influencing commerce and the purchase of farm supplies.
While soy remains the predominant sector in Manoel Ribas' agricultural economy, the rapid development of the dairy industry indicates its growing importance as an economic pillar in the region.
