Rail transport and soybean outflow in MATOPIBA

Brazilian soybean production is developing at an accelerated pace, and new agricultural regions are being formed according to the need and opportunity for expansion. These new agricultural frontiers bring with them significant challenges, mainly regarding the logistical infrastructure available in each region for transporting the harvest. Understanding this infrastructure is fundamental for planning investments in these regions, calculating and estimating the costs of buying and selling grains and inputs, both for producers and for cooperatives, resellers, and trading companies. This study aimed to describe the current road and rail transport of soybeans from MATOPIBA and the potential for expanding rail transport for grain exports, as well as its benefits and obstacles for those operating in the soybean supply chain in the region. A qualitative research method was adopted, based on various publications. It was observed that to achieve international competitiveness and develop agricultural areas further from ports, the new agricultural regions need governmental and private support to overcome their logistical bottlenecks and invest in alternative modes of transport, such as the implementation of a rail system linking the interior to Brazilian ports. It has been proven that rail transport is the ideal mode for soybean distribution, offering lower costs and greater transport safety, resulting in increased investment and development for the entire soybean supply chain in Brazil's new agricultural frontiers.