Bio-Inputs in Brazilian Agriculture: Public Policies and Regulatory Framework

Abstract

Introduction: The article synthesizes the thesis Bio-inputs in Brazilian Agriculture: Public Policies and Regulatory Framework, by the same authors, presenting its most relevant results and contributions. It critically studies the main ongoing public policies and the regulatory framework for the bio-inputs sector, which is still in the consolidation phase. By contextualizing the National Bio-inputs Program to national agricultural policy, the article anticipates the prospects and challenges for the sector. Based on the Goiás State Program case study, the article aims to demonstrate the scope and necessity of public policies for the success of initiatives to increase the use of biological inputs in the country. Finally, the study evaluates regulatory proposals for the sector, currently outlined in Bills No. 3668/21 and No. 658/21, under consideration in the National Congress. Using a combination of theoretical review and case study, the article explores the prospects for sustainable development through the increased use of bio-inputs in Brazilian agriculture and the challenges posed by the lack of an adequate regulatory framework. It concludes that implementation of bio-inputs in Brazil depends on clear regulation, incentives for on-farm production, and support for research and innovation. Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate how public policies, particularly the National Bioinputs Program, the State Bioinputs Program of the State of Goiás, and the regulatory framework proposed in Bills 658/2021 and 3,668/2021, impact, either positively or negatively, the expansion and strengthening of the use of bioinputs in national agriculture. Theoretical Framework: The theoretical framework underpins the discussion on public policies and the regulatory framework for the bioinputs sector in Brazilian agriculture, which falls within the broader concept of bioeconomy. For the case study of the State Bioinputs Program of the State of Goiás, references on methods for evaluating public policies were used as instruments to verify what was planned in relation to the empirically achieved results, with the objective of allowing an understanding of the efficacy, efficiency, and effectiveness achieved by the implemented measures. Finally, for the analysis of the bills that make up the regulatory framework, references are used to form the concept of bioinputs, the scope, and limits of the regulatory framework for the sector. Method: A bibliographic review centered on public policies, bioinputs, and sustainability in agriculture was conducted, prioritizing articles published after 2020. Qualitative and quantitative methods were used through the application of questionnaires. The documentary analysis included the governing legislation on agricultural policies and related topics, accessed documents, and reference publications from sector entities. Case studies of the State Bioinputs Program of the State of Goiás, Law No. 21.005/2021, were carried out, as well as a direct comparison between Bills 658/2021 and 3668/2021 under review in the National Congress. Results and Discussion: The research results indicate that the National Bioinputs Program is a strategic and promising public policy for promoting more sustainable agricultural practices in Brazil but still faces significant challenges. These difficulties were clearly identified in the case study of the State Bioinputs Program of the State of Goiás, which proved effective in aligning its actions with state agricultural policy and ensuring the necessary engagement for its implementation. Through the applied questionnaires, the premise that challenges such as information on supply, infrastructure, costs, and qualified technical assistance still persist was confirmed. Finally, the comparative analysis of Bills 658/2021 and 3,668/2021 reveals a potential missed opportunity, given that both bills follow the logic of legislation applied to agrochemicals. Both bills require adjustments to ensure that the regulatory framework actually provides legal certainty for investors and producers, economic feasibility in its use, health safety, and incentives for innovation, allowing the proper development of the bioinputs sector in Brazil. Research Implications: The research has practical, political, and regulatory implications. Empirically, it offers ideas that support the understanding that bioinputs can indeed contribute to more sustainable agriculture in Brazil, a central premise of ongoing public policies. In the political field, the importance of government positioning on the subject stands out as a decisive factor for the success of expanding the use of bioinputs in Brazilian agribusiness. Finally, in the regulatory field, the research contributes through a direct comparison of the bills under review that propose the construction of the regulatory framework for the sector, highlighting points of attention, opportunities, limits for regulation, and suggestions for improvement, providing elements to enrich discussions on the subject. Given all the above, the research has the potential to influence both the formulation of future public policies and the regulation of the sector, directly impacting the sustainability of Brazilian agribusiness. Originality/Value: The research addresses a contemporary theme related to the construction of the regulatory framework for the sector. Additionally, it brings proposals for specific methodological approaches for formative evaluation of public policies, focusing on the analysis of efficacy, efficiency, and effectiveness.