This white paper from CPI/PUC-Rio, outlines the close connection between cattle productivity and the share of farmland devoted to this activity. Estimates using Agricultural Census data from the last four decades show that these variables are inversely related, indicating that cattle ranching becomes more productive as ranch size declines. Additional empirical exercises suggest that the cost of the land relative to the capital might explain this relationship. Finally, the white paper presents policy lessons that might show a pathway for intensifying cattle ranching without inducing further deforestation.

This brief summarizes findings from an emerging research by CPI/PUC-Rio on the role rural credit plays in Brazil. CPI analysts, under INPUT, determined that rural credit makes a significant difference in raising agricultural productivity and improving land use. The analysts conclude that lack of financial resources often limits farmers’ production possibilities in Brazil. Improved credit access allows producers to make new decisions that lead to higher productivity.