Agribusiness
Agribusiness
Agribusiness in Lages: Potential and Opportunities for Investment
Lages is a strategic hub for agribusiness in Santa Catarina, standing out both for its agricultural production and its potential for innovation and sustainability in the sector. The city and its surrounding region are nationally recognized for their strong presence in livestock farming, especially beef production, as well as a diverse range of agricultural crops that drive the local economy.
The region's humid subtropical climate favors agricultural activities, with mild summers, where temperatures range between 15°C and 25°C, and cold winters, with lows that can drop below zero and highs around 18°C to 20°C. The average annual precipitation of approximately 1,867 mm ensures good conditions for agricultural production, although there are seasonal variations, with January being the wettest month and April the driest.
Beef Cattle
Beef cattle farming is one of the pillars of agribusiness in the Serra Catarinense region, with Lages standing out as an important center for beef production. The city has a high-quality herd, featuring various breeds, including the Crioula Lageana, which holds a Controlled Designation of Origin (DOC), as well as British and other breeds. This beef, born from the balance between humans and nature, carries identity, purity, and a unique flavor, resulting from animal welfare and sustainable practices.
Additionally, the adoption of advanced management and genetic technologies enhances productivity and strengthens the regionʼs sustainable tradition. The recognition of this heritage is reflected in Bill No. 0158/2024, which reinforces the certification of the Crioula Lageana breed and its authenticity in the market.
Global innovation in swine genetics.
Topigs Norsvin, the world's most innovative swine genetics company, is present in more than 55 countries worldwide and strengthens its presence in these markets through the export of breeding animals of the highest sanitary and genetic standards. In Latin America, these exports are strategically conducted from Brazil, which maintains animals with genetic standards as high as those found in Canada and Norway, the companyʼs two main genetic improvement hubs. Currently, Brazil is established as the largest supplier of swine genetics to countries such as Paraguay, Argentina, Bolivia, and Uruguay, with several other markets opening up in recent years. Brazil stands out globally for the sanitary excellence of its production, combined with the advanced genetic improvement program developed by Topigs Norsvin. These factors make its animals highly valued by neighboring markets. Before being exported, the animals go through rigorous sanitary control processes. Farms must meet specific requirements, and the lots destined for export undergo pre-export quarantines, strictly supervised by the Ministry of Agriculture (MAPA) and CIDASC. Only after meeting all the requirements are the animals cleared for shipment. By exporting genetically superior sows and boars, Topigs Norsvin boosts efficiency and sustainability in swine production across the Americas, establishing itself as a benchmark for quality and innovation in the sector.
In the production of animals (cattle) for slaughter, Lages stands out in the mountainous region for being the largest territorial municipality in the state, occupying a privileged position in this culture, and also providing excellent space for the expansion of this type of production.
Forests, Pulp and Paper
Another notable sector is the production of wood, paper and pulp. The city is located in one of the most forested regions of the state, with pine and eucalyptus cultivation standing out. The region's pulp and paper industries benefit from this abundance of natural resources, contributing significantly to the local and state economies. In addition, there is a growing movement to integrate sustainable forest management practices, attracting companies committed to environmental responsibility.
In 2022, total exports amounted to USD 135.6 million, while imports reached USD 53.22 million. In 2023, export figures increased, totaling USD 144.30 million, with imports at USD 26.4 million. In 2024, the first quarter closed with total exports of USD 62.4 million and imports of USD 10.7 million. It is worth noting that international trade covers more than 40 countries across all continents..
Fonte: https://www.nsctotal.com.br/noticias/o-papel-da-industria-madeireira-em-lages-e-na-regiao-da-serra-catarinense
Fruit Growing and Diversified Agriculture
Besides livestock farming and forestry, Lages is also an important center for the production of fruits, such as apples, strawberries and grapes, which are grown on several rural properties in the region. The city's cold climate and natural conditions favor high-quality fruit production, with an emphasis on apple cultivation, which is widely exported to several international markets.
Wheat production has shown significant growth, with the Lages region increasing its production by 494% in recent years, achieving a harvest of 7.6 thousand tons of wheat on 2.8 thousand hectares planted.
Santa Catarina, as a whole, recorded a record wheat production, with an estimated harvest of 348 thousand tons, an increase of 102% compared to the previous year.
Fonte: www.estado.sc.gov.br/noticias/regiao-de-lages-amplia-em-494-a-producao-de-trigo/
Agriculture 4.0
The city has also stood out for adopting innovative and sustainable agricultural practices. Agriculture 4.0, which uses monitoring and automation technologies in the field, is on the rise in the region. The implementation of smart irrigation systems, the use of drones to monitor crops, and sustainable forest management technologies are some of the initiatives that have been gaining momentum. This innovative approach attracts companies and investors seeking modern and responsible solutions for agribusiness.
Infrastructure and Logistics
Lages has a robust infrastructure that facilitates the logistics of production flow. The city is well connected by highways that link it to the main consumer markets in Brazil and abroad. The proximity to the Port of São Francisco do Sul, which facilitates the export of agricultural products, is also an attraction for investors.
Opportunities for Investors
With its strong agricultural base, consolidated infrastructure and growing focus on innovation and sustainability, Lages offers a fertile environment for investment in agribusiness. The city is ready to support companies seeking to explore the vast opportunities in the areas of agricultural production, biotechnology, logistics and renewable energy.
