EN 
PT_BR 
The 2026/27 harvest in Goiás is expected to register the processing of between 80 million tons of sugarcane, according to an initial estimate from Sifaeg and Sifaçúcar. The assessment by these entities points to the maintenance of the state's historical vocation focused on ethanol production.
In recent harvests, approximately 701% of the sugarcane processed in Goiás was destined for biofuel. According to the executive president of the entities, André Rocha, this trend is expected to intensify.
“Many plants lack the capacity to produce sugar, which naturally makes the mix more geared towards ethanol. This trend should gain momentum given the current price environment and the increased liquidity of biofuels,” he says.
Corn ethanol is gaining ground.
Corn ethanol production continues to expand and is expected to play an even more significant role in Goiás's production matrix, with new units, flex-fuel plants, and ongoing projects.
Among the highlights is the new Inpasa unit in Rio Verde, with operations scheduled to begin at the end of this year. Investments by the São Martinho Group in Quirinópolis and Serranópolis, and by CerradinhoBio, are also progressing, expanding grain processing capacity.
At the Neomille plant in Chapadão do Céu, R$140 million is being invested, increasing production capacity by approximately 30%, which should reach 1.2 million tons of corn per year. Operations are scheduled to begin in August.
Meanwhile, the São Martinho Group is investing R$1.1 billion in expanding its Quirinópolis unit, which will process 635,000 tons of corn per year, with an estimated production of 270,000 m³ of ethanol, in addition to byproducts such as DDGS and corn oil. In Serranópolis, Energética Serranópolis is investing R$60 million to begin processing the grain later this year.
Another ongoing project is that of Eber Bio, in Montes Claros, with production scheduled to begin at the end of 2026.
“Corn has become a strategic driver for Goiás. With the announced investments, the state is poised to reach second place nationally in corn ethanol production,” highlights André Rocha.
Progress in biogas and biomethane
In addition to ethanol, Goiás is also making progress in the production of biogas and biomethane, with projects that should expand the supply of renewable energy in the coming years.
The state has stood out for its decarbonization policies, such as the adoption of biomethane-powered buses in public transportation. "The energy transition puts Goiás in a prominent position, but it is essential to guarantee competitiveness and legal security to sustain investments," says the executive.
Impacts of the international scenario
The conflict in the Middle East adds uncertainty to the sector, especially due to its impact on oil prices. The rise in diesel prices puts pressure on operating costs, affecting everything from harvesting to transporting sugarcane, which reduces the profit margins of sugar mills.
Another point of concern is the fertilizer market. Brazil depends on imports to meet domestic demand, and geopolitical fluctuations can increase the costs of these inputs, potentially impacting crop productivity.
“The international environment directly influences the sector's strategic decisions. Volatility in prices and exchange rates makes planning more challenging for companies and producers,” says André Rocha.
Despite specific opportunities, such as the strengthening of the ethanol sector, the short-term outlook tends to be marked by cost pressures and increased risk. For the sector, this moment reinforces the need for operational efficiency and reduced dependence on imported inputs.
