Program Bônus Mais Leite Boosts $181.9 Million in Credit in Brazil

The Programa Bônus Mais Leite successfully wrapped up its operations for the 2025/2026 agricultural cycle in the Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul, achieving a total of R$ 181.9 million (approximately $35 million) in rural financing. This initiative, which combines state credit and subsidies, aims to support the dairy farming sector, particularly families involved in this industry.

Since its inception by the Secretary of Rural Development in November 2025, the program has seen over 3,072 projects approved, benefiting more than 2,800 families. During the seven-month period, the program received 3,400 applications, with most being approved for state subsidy linked to rural credit operations after technical review.

The consolidated data reveals that 1,987 operations were allocated for activity costs, while 1,085 projects received funds for investments. In addition to credit facilitation, the state government released R$ 29.8 million in direct subsidies to the eligible producers.

The Secretary of Rural Development, Gustavo Paim, emphasized the program's innovative approach, which integrates state resources with rural credit operations, providing direct funds to producers to enhance their activities efficiently.

This program was introduced in response to challenges faced by the dairy sector, such as declining producer prices, increased production costs, and losses due to extreme weather events in recent years.

The conclusion of the first cycle of the Programa Bônus Mais Leite underscores the significant role that financial instruments can play in supporting the dairy production chain, utilizing rural credit as a tool for sustaining production and assisting family-run farms.