Mergers and intercooperation strengthen Brazilian cooperativism in 2026
Mergers of Brazilian cooperatives ensure economies of scale and competitiveness. Understand how alliances and intercooperation are changing the sector's game.
TL;DR
- The number of Brazilian cooperatives decreased from 5,314 in 2019 to 4,400 in 2025, but revenue and member numbers have increased.
- This consolidation is driven by mergers and strategic alliances aimed at increasing scale, reducing costs, and facing global competition.
- Member base grew from 15.5 million to 29 million between 2019 and 2025.
- Economies of scale allow larger cooperatives to negotiate better prices for inputs, invest in technology, and offer improved services at lower costs.
- Paraná state is a success story, focusing on agro-industrialization and intercooperation, with initiatives like Maltaria Campos Gerais.
- Intercooperation involves cooperatives working together on specific projects without losing legal identity or autonomy.