Paraná agribusiness expands through silk production and major cooperatives

The state of Paraná is strengthening its position in the agribusiness sector through both specialized production and large-scale cooperative success. The region has become the largest producer of silkworm cocoons in Latin America, accounting for approximately 85% of Brazil's national production. Centered in the ‘Silk Valley’ in northern Paraná, this organic sericulture industry supplies international luxury brands. To combat challenges such as climate fluctuations and pesticide drift, the state is implementing technological reference units featuring modern irrigation and climate monitoring.

Simultaneously, the western region of Paraná has demonstrated significant economic power through its agricultural cooperatives. Six cooperatives from the West—C. Vale, Copacol, Coopavel, Frimesa, Copagril, and Lar—were ranked among the 1,000 largest companies in Brazil. These organizations reported a combined 2025 revenue of approximately R$ 74.6 billion, supporting over 80,000 members and generating more than 68,000 direct jobs. This growth reflects a regional shift from raw grain supply toward high-value agro-industrial processing.