Setting transformational pathways consistent with post-2015 SDGs: The case of Uruguay s rice sector.

Abstract

This research outlines the fundamental elements of a pathway for transforming Uruguay s rice sector in a way that is consistent with post-2015 SDGs. Uruguay is the most export-oriented rice producing country in the word, selling around 95% of its total production in the international market. This article introduces the methodologic approach followed for setting the productivity and environmental targets for 2030, which constitute the basis of the sustainable intensification process chosen by the country, and follows with the process of developing the transformation pathway that is necessary for achieving the goals. The simulated economic and environmental results are then presented and discussed in order to extract useful lessons for the development of SDGs in the case of other situations involving small open economies highly relying on agribusiness activities. This is precisely the reason why Uruguay was chosen as a relevant case study by United Nations, under the Sustainable Development Solutions Network initiative (SDSN). Acknowledgement : The authors want thank all the stakeholders of the rice sector in Uruguay. for their strong support to this projetc and their commitment with the development of a sustainable transformation pathway for the national agriculture. Special recognition to ACA, GMA,OPYPA-MGAP and all the other institutions and persons that colleboratedI with this initiative. To our institution and to our colleagues at INIA, goe also our appreciation. All errors that could appear in this article are the sole responsibility of the authors..