Covid-19 pandemic: a case-study for the Agroecological Fair of PDS Porto Seguro, Marabá, Brazil

ABSTRACT

Several actions were deployed to contain the propagation of the new coronavirus and the flattening of the contagion curve, or rather, social distancing with partial or total suspension of commercial activities, including agricultural fairs. Current research identifies the effects of the pandemic on production and commercialization by family farmers in the Project of Sustainable Development Porto Seguro in Marabá PA Brazil. Study comprised field research and the application of a questionnaire with questions on the farmer´s profile, characteristics of activities and impacts by the pandemic. Data from qualitative and quantitative approaches were tabulated and interpreted by descriptive analysis. Results showed a production increase by farmers and changes in sanitary practices. However, trade decreased and prices remained stable, impairing family income. Emergency help was important for income supplementation. Farmers had at their disposal TV, radio and WhatsApp for information, even though access to the Internet was not without difficulties. According to the interviewees, the pandemic´s main negative items were lockouts, difficulties in selling, impairment of health and loss of products. Positive items comprised on-line agricultural fair, a new solution for reaching clients. © 2022 University Center of Maringa. All rights reserved.