Genetic improvement and agribusiness in Brazil
Magno Antonio Patto Ramalho
Abstract: Genetic plant breeding has significantly contributed to the increase of grain and other products’ yield, to reduced investments, and to the incorporation of new areas in Brazil. The performance of the agribusiness over the last decades has reflected this contribution. The main events of participation of improvement are presented here, as well as a division on the current tendencies in plant genetics research. Possible consequences of the lack of trained professionals in classical improvement are discussed and the deficiency of funds in this area. Emphasis is given to the exigency that progress in molecular biology must not occur in detriment of classical improvement, but rather in perfect harmony of both, for a sustained success of Brazil’s agribusiness.