Brazilian agribusiness leaders condemn Lula's remarks on rural producers

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has sparked significant backlash from the Brazilian agribusiness sector following comments made during a rally in Florianópolis. Lula suggested that because of the government resources allocated to the sector, rural producers should not only vote for him but “se ajoelhar para mim” (kneel before me).

Representatives of the agricultural sector have strongly rejected these remarks. Ágide Eduardo Meneguette, president of the Federation of Agriculture of the State of Paraná (Faep), described the statement as “descabida” (unwarranted) and an expression of arrogance, arguing that the president should instead be grateful to the sector for sustaining the national economy.

Federal Deputy Coronel Fernanda (PL-MT) also criticized the president, stating that the agribusiness sector is being undervalued by the federal government. She emphasized that the sector includes small farmers and producers essential for food security, and argued that the current administration lacks adequate incentives and financing for rural producers. Other leaders, including representatives from the Parliamentary Agriculture Front (FPA), have criticized the government's handling of the sector, citing insufficient public policies, high interest rates, and lack of rural insurance.