Family Farming Contributes 42% to Rio Grande do Sul's Agricultural Output

Family farming is a vital component of the agricultural landscape in Rio Grande do Sul, as revealed by a recent survey presented at the opening of the Family Farming Week. This segment generates approximately R$ 47 billion annually, accounting for 42% of the state's Gross Production Value (VBP) in agriculture. The survey, conducted by the Federation of Agricultural Workers of Rio Grande do Sul (Fetag-RS) using data from the Ministry of Agriculture and the IBGE Agricultural Census, underscores the sector's economic impact.

Despite occupying only 25% of the state's agricultural land, family farms employ 70% of the rural workforce, highlighting their role in sustaining agricultural activities across various regions. However, the sector faces challenges, particularly regarding workforce renewal. The survey indicates that only 2% of family farmers are under 25 years old, reflecting an aging demographic.

The National Household Sample Survey (PNAD) data shows a 35% decline in the rural population aged 15 to 29 in the Southern Region from 2012 to 2024. This demographic shift poses a challenge for the future sustainability of family farming.

In addition to demographic concerns, the survey also addresses issues in the dairy sector, where the number of milk producers in Rio Grande do Sul has decreased significantly from 60,000 to 28,000 over the last 15 years. This decline emphasizes the need for policies focusing on rural development and property succession.

The Fetag-RS emphasized the importance of addressing these challenges during their presentation, calling for targeted policies to secure the future of family farming in the state.