Brasília - The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) will orient the members of the Mercosur (Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay) in the consolidation of an integrated trade system within the bloc and with other countries. The FAO Representative in Brazil, José Tubino, said that the idea is to give preference to the consumption of products in which each country possesses a comparative advantage.

"If Brazil has an advantage in raising hogs, Argentina would give preference to our pork. We would do the same for Argentinean corn. This without impairing the right to sell to other countries," Tubino said.

The partnership between the FAO and the Brazilian government was discussed with the Minister of Agriculture, Roberto Rodrigues. The international organ will also assist Brazil in the program coordinated by the National Supply Company (Conab) to modernize produce markets. A mission will arrive in Brazil in September to visit the supply centers (Ceasas) and proceed with negotiations to implement the partnership.

The President of the Conab, Luis Carlos Guedes, informed that there are around 30 Ceasas in Brazil. "We want to assure small producers greater access to the market, and we are counting on the support of the FAO for this," Guedes affirmed.

The FAO will present successful experiences in Europe and Asia as models. The partnership also envisions assistance to producers' cooperatives.

Agência Brasil
Reporter: Lana Cristina
Translator: David Silberstein
08/24/2004