National smoke may be certified by the Ministry of Agriculture and earn more export competitiveness
Although not a legal requirement, certification and traceability tobacco may also ensure the competitiveness of Brazilian products in foreign markets. Faced with the threat of African production, these actions can be a difference in the near future.
Currently, Brazil is the world’s largest exporter, ahead of India, Zimbabwe and the United States. However, Zimbabwe has increased production every year, competing with Brazil in contention for the international market.
Secretary of the Association of Tobacco Growers in Brazil (Afubra), Romeo Schneider explains that 70% of the tobacco produced in Brazil is the flavor type (higher quality), a niche in which African producers are investing heavily.
– Africa is working to get a slice of the Brazilian market. To get more security in relation to the business maintenance warranty, we must prepare to have everything certified and guaranteed by official institutions in Brazil – says Schneider.
Training the way
Starting this year, the Brazilian tobacco may be certified by the Ministry of Agriculture. Established in August 2014, with the creation of the Integrated Tobacco Production System, the official seal ensures that production was developed in accordance with lower environmental and social impacts. Another positive aspect is the full guarantee of product traceability. In the system, the producer records all steps from planting to harvest, detailing dates, amounts, types and brands of pesticides used. Schneider, who chairs the Sectorial Chamber Tobacco, the Ministry of Agriculture said that the country will be worldwide pioneer in the certification.
— We can say that we have traceability system. If you know everything that happens from beginning to end of production. In practice, the traceability already exists. It just needed to be made official.
Chairman of the Interstate Association of Tobacco Industry (SindiTabaco) , Iro Schünke explains that formalize environmental responsibility practices (no use of child labor , environmental concerns and worker health and safety) . Now, the organization will train technical companies. Then form auditors to verify compliance with the requirements.
Ranking Tobacco Market
– With this official via ministry will further strengthen Brazil in the global tobacco market – says Schünke .
Known track
The main benefits of being tobacco traceability
For producers
Negotiate a differentiated production and ensure continuity in the market.
For industries
Gain recognition in sustainability and social and environmental responsibility and greater competitive advantage in the global market.
For customers
Greater degree of safety and quality of products, waste as Brazilian and international standards and traceability assurance and sustainability of processes.
Source: Zero Hora – Atualizada em 27/01/2015 | 07h58min
