The “Soybeanization” of Agrarian Reform Settlements in Sant’Ana do Livramento/RS

The expansion of soybean monoculture in agrarian reform settlements in Sant’Ana do Livramento - RS represents a structural change in the productive dynamics of the Pampa biome, marking the transition from diversified family farming to a subordinated integration into global commodity chains. This study aimed to analyze the socioeconomic and structural profile of settlers, identifying the economic motivations and limiting factors sustaining soybean production in these areas. The research adopted a mixed-methods approach, administering 149 questionnaires in 24 of the 30 settlements in the municipality, covering 907 plots. The study used stratified sampling across settlements to represent the diversity of productive units. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistical techniques and hypothesis testing to identify patterns of scale, asymmetry in land occupation, and the main economic drivers and constraints associated with production. The results reveal that 84.6% of the plots cultivate soybeans, while 53.6% operate under leasing or partnership arrangements, transferring production management to third parties. The study identified severe internal concentration: only 6% of plots control 50% of the cultivated area, indicating a process of “reconcentration” within the agrarian reform space. Higher profitability is the main economic driver, whereas inadequate infrastructure and climatic instability represent the most significant constraints. The study concludes that a significant institutional gap exists, evidenced by the near absence of public technical assistance (1.4%) and the direct dependence on cooperatives and private companies, which compromises peasant autonomy and long-term socio-environmental sustainability.