Agricultural Sector: A Call to Order
According to the statistics published by the APIA for 2024, one figure stands out: 3,001 projects were approved, creating 3,000 jobs. In other words, one job was created per project, which is not normal.
It is logical that agricultural workers are seasonal by excellence, but a minimum number of permanent staff is required to ensure the proper functioning of a farm. Practice has taught us that there is a daily workforce in the fields, composed of rural women. Frequent accidents are the best witness to this. The changes envisioned in the Labor Code will not revolutionize the situation. The recruitment of seasonal workers will be preserved, given the cyclical nature of campaigns. However, are these women really recruited through contracts? Even fixed-term contracts? They are paid by the day, without social coverage, except in exceptional cases.
It is now crucial to bring some order to this sector. Agriculture benefits from unique tax advantages, including a corporate tax rate of only 10%. Now, it will become one of the rare activities to benefit from a flexible labor market. In return, it is legitimate to expect investors to respect the minimum in terms of workers' rights.
This is also very important for the CNSS and the entire healthcare system. In severe illnesses, access to care is guaranteed in hospitals. Admittedly, the journey is difficult and the waiting period is long, but it is assured without requiring a contribution from the other side. On-site control by social services and investment authorities is crucial. If we must link the fiscal and financial advantage to a real declaration of the workforce, we must do so without hesitation.
The agricultural sector must be held accountable for respecting the rights of its workers, particularly rural women, who are the backbone of this industry. It is time to ensure that they receive fair treatment, including social coverage and decent working conditions.
