Unlocking Potential to Advance Performance in Brazilian Value Chains
Women continue to work more and earn less than men across the world
The World Inequality Report shows a consistent global pattern: women receive lower labour income than men in every region. Globally, women capture just over a quarter of total labour income, a share that has barely shifted since 1990.
Excluding unpaid work, women earn only 61% of men’s hourly income; when unpaid labour is included, this figure falls to just 32%. These disproportionate responsibilities restrict women’s career opportunities, limit political participation, and slow wealth accumulation. Gender inequality is therefore not only a question of fairness but also a structural inefficiency: economies that undervalue half of their population’s labour undermine their own capacity for growth and resilience.
Brazil’s agribusiness sector is no exception. Women are increasingly present across key value chains, yet they face persistent structural barriers to equal access to land, credit, income, leadership opportunities, and technical assistance.
Only 19% of rural establishments are led by women. And despite having, on average, higher levels of education, women remain concentrated in lower‑value roles and continue to earn less.
Across soy, cocoa, coffee, citrus, sugarcane, and beef, the trend remains the same: women are participating more, but systemic inequities continue to limit their potential. Addressing gender equity in agribusiness is not just a matter of fairness; it is a strategic imperative.
Brazil’s case illustrates the cost of inequality, but it also shows what could be unlocked if we address structural barriers through an inclusion-centred lens. By investing in women as leaders, entrepreneurs, and key actors in value chains, agribusiness can activate a powerful driver of inclusive, competitive, and sustainable growth. Embedding gender equity into core business and sourcing strategies is essential for building a sector that is resilient, responsible, and future‑ready.
The Women in Brazilian Agribusiness Value Chains Report works on a shared agenda for producers,companies, and investors, and highlights six key themes that emerged as critical to advancing gender equity while driving sector-wide performance.
Dive into the full report to understand what needs to change, and what we can unlock if we act: