EN 
PT_BR 
With a record corn harvest of 128.3 million tons expected in 2025, Brazil strengthens its position among the world's largest corn producers. Driven by favorable weather conditions and good field practices, the ongoing second harvest is expected to reach 101 million tons, an increase of 12.21 metric tons compared to the previous harvest, according to data from the National Supply Company (Conab).
However, amidst the optimistic scenario, the National Union of the Plant Protection Products Industry (Sindiveg) warns of a growing risk in crops: the return of the fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) as the main pest of the crop.
The organization notes that the species has shown resistance to some technologies and, furthermore, attacks have occurred early, requiring attention from the early stages of planting. "The fall armyworm has once again become a concern for producers precisely because it attacks early and causes severe damage to leaves, ears, and the base of plants, which can compromise crop development and productivity," explains Sindiveg's Regulatory Affairs Manager, Fábio Kagi.
With the potential to cause production losses of up to 60%, the infestation intensifies under continuous corn cultivation conditions, prolonged drought, temperatures above 25°C, and late sowing. To mitigate these losses, Kagi recommends investing in Integrated Pest Management (IPM), which includes complementary cultural, biological, and chemical control strategies. "Among the effective practices are desiccation of the area at least 30 days before sowing, crop rotation, and seed treatment with systemic pesticides," he notes.
For Kagi, successful caterpillar control requires continuous and responsible management, beginning even before sowing and continuing throughout the crop's cycle. "Diversifying tools and planning interventions are essential to maintaining control over the insect population," he concludes.
