Data Envelopment Analysis as a Measure of Efficiency of the Main Citrus-Producing Regions in Brasil

Objective: The objective of this research is to measure the efficiency of the main citrus-producing regions in Brazil, focusing on the harvests between 2011 and 2020 in the states of Minas Gerais and São Paulo. The main objective was to analyze the efficiency of these regions, with an emphasis on comparing the two states. Theoretical Framework: We applied the Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) technique, a statistical tool widely used to measure production efficiency. There are two most commonly used models for DEA: CCR and BCC. Method: DEA is an approach focused on efficiency analysis and is frequently applied to mapping production processes in both the agricultural and industrial sectors. This technique uses multiple input criteria to generate outputs. Results and Discussion: The results indicated that the DMU19 region of the Bebedouro region of São Paulo became the most efficient in the 2019 harvest. Research Implications: From a practical perspective, the results can benefit citrus growers by providing insights for optimizing production, especially regarding variable costs. The results indicated significant variations in production costs, highlighting financial costs as the most volatile factor across the regions analyzed. Originality/Value: The study contributes to the literature by presenting a new application of DEA in the context of Brazilian agribusiness, expanding the understanding of productive efficiency in the agricultural sector.