Production Arrangement of Cachaça: Comparative Study Between Morretes in the Paraná Coast and Luiz Alves in Itajaí Valley - Santa Catarina

Abstract

Objective: The research sought to promote a characterization of the cachaça LPA in Morretes, Paraná in comparison to an LPA in another Brazilian region, whose production is similar and is classified as one of the most developed in Brazil. Theoretical Framework: Studies about Local Productive Arrangements have been relevant to proposals and regional development, so the basis of the research was inserted in the introductory phase. Method: Between May 2022 and February 2023, an exploratory descriptive study was carried out with leaders of two cachaça production arrangements located in the south of Brazil, one consolidated in Santa Catarina and the other one under development in Paraná. Results and Discussion: The results obtained revealed that despite the similar number of producers, the Morretes LPA has a production capacity equivalent to 35% of what is produced in the Luiz Alves LPA. The difference in productivity is not linked to factors such as proximity to the consumer market, distribution logistics, labor or even geoclimatic characteristics. The main factors limiting the easier development of LPAs were the degree of difficulty in regularizing production, the lack of technical assistance and the almost non-existence of public policies, with the Morretes LPA on the coast of Paraná being most impacted. It is concluded that the insertion of tourism associated with beverage consumption, investment in marketing actions and public policies that facilitate the regularization of informal producers can strengthen the Morretes LPA and promote its consolidation as an economic activity that generates regional development. Research Implications: The Morretes LPA has all the favorable and synergistic conditions for the development of the cachaça LPA, and in this context the offer of new services and products arising from production and trade activities can generate a set of entertainment offered as a new experience for tourists, in addition from visits to stills and the creation of parties and fairs with the drink theme. Originality/Value: Comparative studies between local productive arrangements are still little explored in scientific literature and may guide regional development in a more organized way.