The Landless Workers' Movement (MST) has announced the installation of an organic fertilizer factory in Rio Grande do Sul, in partnership with China. The aim of the project is to strengthen agroecology in the country by offering low-cost inputs with innovative technology. The announcement was made by João Pedro Stedile during the 22nd Agroecological Rice Harvest Festival in Viamão (RS).

The partnership came about after a visit by members of the MST to China, where the Chinese government demonstrated its willingness to transfer technology and train grassroots organizations to manage and operate the factories. The first unit will be set up in Nova Santa Rita (RS), focusing on the production of inputs for agroecological rice, and will be financed by Banco do Brasil.

An important aim of the project is to modernize agricultural production with sustainable machinery at affordable prices. The MST plans to set up Chinese equipment factories in Brazil, with the aim of creating jobs in rural areas and fostering local development.

(Source: Terra Nós, on March 21)