Crop Production

Crop Production

Brief Excerpt from Industry Overview Chapter:

Companies in this industry grow crops mainly for food and fiber. Major companies include Chiquita Brands International, Dole Food Company, Fresh Del Monte Produce, and Sunkist Growers (all based in the US); along with AMAGGI (Brazil) and Dole PLC (Ireland).

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Demand is driven by federal agricultural policy programs, global and national food consumption trends, and the grain and oilseed export market. The profitability of individual companies depends on maximizing crop yield and minimizing disease risk. Large companies have advantages in highly automated technologies and access to the latest in seed and crop technologies. Small operations can compete effectively by harvesting heirloom, non-genetically modified (GM), organic, or specialty products.

PRODUCTS, OPERATIONS & TECHNOLOGY

Major products are corn (about 30% of US industry revenue), soybeans (about 20%), fruits and nuts (about 20%), vegetables and melons (about 10%), and wheat (about 5%). The remaining crops account for about 25%. The production of hemp, a form of cannabis with lower THC levels than marijuana, was legalized under the 2019 farm bill, presenting potential lucrative new markets for farmers.