Brazil is about to start its planting season, which promises to be a record year for soybean production. However, farmers like Irineu Orth are not celebrating, as the global diesel shortage is coinciding with a seasonal increase in demand for the fuel, essential for the operation of the agricultural sector.
Brazil is the world's largest exporter of several important crops, such as soybeans, cotton, coffee, sugar, and orange juice. To harvest these crops, farmers need diesel to fuel tractors and trucks. The increase in costs for producers can cause ripple effects on global supply chains.
Additionally, since Brazil is the world's second largest diesel importer, behind only Australia, the peak of the planting season should worsen the global fuel shortage. The planting season is crucial to help feed the world.
The country is returning to heavily depend on American imports, which may translate into higher prices.




