Coffee harvest end triggers job losses in São Mateus and Jaguaré

The conclusion of the coffee harvest in the Brazilian municipalities of São Mateus and Jaguaré has led to a significant drop in formal employment. As seasonal contracts end, many temporary workers return to their home states, such as Bahia and Minas Gerais.

In July, São Mateus recorded a negative balance of 317 formal jobs, with the agricultural sector losing 432 positions. Jaguaré experienced a more severe impact, losing 1,217 formal jobs, including 1,230 vacancies in the agricultural sector. Local rural unions note that while some workers remain for tasks like pruning, the majority depart after the harvest. Additionally, increased mechanization is reportedly reducing the long-term need for temporary manual labor.