Brazil’s Food System Transformation

Brazil’s food system transformation was built upon foundations of strong macroeconomic policies, political stability, and forward-thinking investments in agricultural R&D that helped spur key innovations. Complementary policies supporting the agriculture sector via rural credit systems, public food acquisition, extension, risk management, and adoption of climate-smart approaches have helped to advance transformation. Through remarkable agricultural productivity growth combined with strong social protection policies, Brazil made great progress in reducing hunger and undernutrition; however, overweight and obesity are on the rise. Brazil must continue to address persistent inequalities, particularly in policies favoring large farms over small farms, which have contributed to food and land tenure insecurity among other issues. Still, Brazil’s experience can offer important lessons for prioritizing investments in agricultural R&D and social protection, as well as engagement with the private sector, particularly public-private partnerships.

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