Pig production in Goias state: Using a spatial model

The main propose of this research work was to analyze the most efficient spatial distribution of pig production units in the state of Goiás. The model developed required a mixed integer programming structure. The factors considered in the model were: the grain transportation cost (corn and soybeans) from the source to the production unit, the cost of transporting the animals form the production unit to slaughterhouses and the carcass transportation from the slaughterhouse to retailers. The consumption market was spatially defined as comprising the state of Goiás, the Federal District, and the cities of São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Belo Horizonte. Moreover, we determined the supplies of corn and soybeans for each microregion, and the national per capita pork consumption. Three scenarios, showing different per capita consumption levels, were considered. One of these is the current per capita consumption level and the two other were determined according to sector perspectives.