PROSPECT OF GROWTH AND PRODUCTIVITY OF SUGARCANE IN THE MESOREGION OF ASSIS/SP: CROPS 2003/04 TO 2013/14

Abstract

The South-Central region concentrates the most part of sugarcane production in Brazil, especially the state of Sao Paulo. This research aimed to analyze the cultivation and productivity (t/ha) of sugarcane in the Assis mesoregion, São Paulo, between the 2003/04 and 2013/14 seasons. It is a mixed research with descriptive objectives, and an unstructured interview with key actors was used. Secondary data were obtained from individuals directly involved with the industry research area. The results show an increase of 56.6% in the cultivated area (96,903 hectares) in the considered period, and indicate that the average productivity (cane harvested ton/ha) of the mesoregion is higher than other regions averages. Another important evidence is that, despite the increase in the expansion of cultivated area and growth expectations, the sector has systematically preserved the environmental protection areas, including reforestation of riparian forests and permanent environmental protection area.

Keywords: Sugar-energy sector; sugarcane production; sustainability; Mesoregion of Assis/SP.