Regenerative Agriculture, Citrus and Sugarcane – Brazil

Key Facts

• Client: Agro São José
• Term: 10 year loan
• Guarantee instrument: Maturity Subordination 
• Guarantee exposure: 40%
• Effective date: December 2023

Deal Summary

AGRI3 is supporting the mobilisation of USD 20m from Rabobank for the production of oranges, sugarcane and in organic lemons, in Brazil

The loan will be used to finance a range of investments related to the expansion of the regenerative practices applied by the group and will support Agro São José with transitioning from a conventional to a regenerative business model. Agro São José is a traditional family owned business based in Rio Claro, Sao Paulo State. The group currently has a productive area of over 8,000 hectares, and is currently active in oranges, sugarcane and in organic lemons.

Impact Rationale

The loan provided by Rabobank and guaranteed by AGRI3, will finance biological input purchasing which will enable the farm to restore soils with organic compost and in turn lead to a reduction of inorganic fertilisers, with continuous improvements each year. Additionally, the extended use of biological crop protection products, will decrease the use  of chemical defensives.

The loan will also support the company in planting 430 hectares of orange trees which are to be established using regenerative practices. The company commits to achieving international sustainable agriculture certification. Agro São José will endeavour to develop solutions to be shared as learnings from the company’s regenerative journey in contact with local universities. 

AGRI3 will work further with the company to support them in maximising their native vegetation conservation efforts, knowledge sharing of regenerative practices and addressing social and gender related challenges.

Impact Targets

Protection of natural ecosystem (direct and indirect)

Sustainable agriculture

Improved rural livelihoods