Application of the Transhipment Model to Development of the Seed Industry in Northeast Brazil

The importance of agriculture in developing economies is reflected in the share of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) originating in that sector and in the percent of population working in that sector. Brazil received 19 percent of its GDP from agriculture in 1968, and 60 percent of its population was in agriculture. In contrast, only three percent of GDP came from agriculture in the United States, and only six percent of the population was employed in agriculture.Development of a country's agriculture is dependent on a multitude of factors—not the least of which is availability and use of good seed. Use of high quality seeds increases total yield; allows for more efficient use of fertilizers, pesticides and irrigation because of greater uniformity, better stands and more vigorous plants; usually results in higher quality produce; requires lower planting rates; and usually reduces weed, disease and soil insect problems. Other inputs such as fertilizers, pesticides, technical assistance and credit availability are necessary to achieving a sound agriculture.