João Pessoa's Family Agriculture Fair Boosts Local Farmers

The Prefeitura de João Pessoa, through the Secretaria de Desenvolvimento Econômico e Trabalho (Sedest), runs a weekly Family Agriculture Fair to strengthen small‑scale farmers and provide residents with pesticide‑free, agro‑ecological foods. In June the fair operates at three city sites – Parque Parahyba I in Bessa (Wednesdays 14:00‑19:00), Praça Chateaubriand Arnaud in Manaíra (Fridays 05:00‑11:00) and Praça Tarcísio Meira in Altiplano (Tuesdays 05:00‑11:00). The market sells fruits, vegetables, tubers, mel, cashew nuts, tapioca gum and gluten‑free baked goods, all produced under the ‘Eu Posso Semear’ program.

Sedest director Adriano Vasconcelos explains that the municipality supports the entire production chain – from soil preparation, seed distribution and technical assistance to free logistical help for transporting goods to the fairs. Producer Marcos Júnior says the support lets him bring fresh, organic honey directly to consumers, while farmer Manoel Batista da Silva notes the program has helped dozens of families boost income. Residents such as Paulo Martins, Camila Franzin and Julia Bispo praise the fair’s convenient location, low prices and trustworthy atmosphere.