The future of upland rice in Brazil: a crop of opportunity

Abstract

This article examined the future of upland rice in Brazil. Using time series analysis, the variables production, harvested area, imports, and the consumption of irrigated and upland rice were investigated. The results show the consolidation of the secular downward trend for upland rice cultivation in the country. Some disruptive factors may lead to the emergence of a diverse scenario; however, currently, there is no evidence that enables arguing in favor of positive changes for this crop being robust enough to override the observed path. There are also no market forces pressing for changes. The upland rice will not disappear from Brazilian fields, it will continue existing as a crop of opportunity.