Tamaulipas Farmers Gain Access to Expanded Credit and Insurance Program
San Fernando, Tamaulipas – A recent financial product is offering increased support to local farmers through the “Cosechando Soberanía” (Harvesting Sovereignty) credit program. Announced on February 9, 2026, by Secretary of Rural Development, Fisheries and Aquaculture, Antonio Varela Flores, alongside representatives from SADER, FIRA, and SFI, the program aims to boost food production through a comprehensive approach encompassing credit, technical assistance, and marketing strategies.
Expanding Eligibility and Crop Coverage
The program’s initial framework, discussed in a meeting last September, has been refined to broaden its reach. Following advocacy from Governor Américo Villarreal, the program now includes temporary sorghum crops on up to 20 hectares and irrigated white corn on similar acreage. This expansion addresses the needs of a wider range of producers in the region.
Enhanced Financial Protection for Farmers
A key improvement lies in the associated insurance product. The new financial product now protects investments derived from the credits by 25% more than the loan amount, with an assured yield of 1.8 tons per hectare and a 15% deductible. This is a significant upgrade from initial proposals, which offered coverage only equal to the credit amount, a yield of 1.5 tons per hectare, and a 30% deductible. Varela Flores emphasized that this level of financial protection is unique, stating, “We have no reference of another state having addressed this issue or achieved what we are accomplishing today.”
Streamlining Access to Credit
Efforts are underway to expedite the loan application process. Officials are working to disseminate information about eligible producers—those who have already received their eligibility certificates—to authorized warehouses and municipalities. The goal is to convert the nearly 1,000 issued certificates into formal financing requests, accelerating the flow of funds to farmers.
Collaboration for Agricultural Success
The initiative benefits from strong collaboration between various government agencies and local stakeholders. Attendees at the announcement included Román Rigoberto Garza Infante (SADER Tamaulipas), Jorge Villalobos Chávez (FIRA state resident), Verónica Aguirre de los Santos (San Fernando mayor), Ramón García Salinas (SFI Manager), and several state legislators including Silvia Chávez Garay and Marina Ramírez Andrade. The presence of key figures from the agricultural sector underscores the program’s importance and commitment to supporting Tamaulipas farmers.
The Future of Government-Backed Agricultural Programs
The “Cosechando Soberanía” program exemplifies a growing trend toward more comprehensive and responsive government support for agriculture. Historically, agricultural subsidies and credit programs have often been criticized for being bureaucratic, inflexible, and failing to reach those who need them most. This program attempts to address these shortcomings through its adaptive approach and focus on risk mitigation.
Risk Management as a Cornerstone
The enhanced insurance component is particularly noteworthy. Climate change and unpredictable weather patterns are increasing the risks faced by farmers globally. Programs that proactively address these risks, like “Cosechando Soberanía,” are likely to develop into increasingly common. This shift reflects a broader understanding that simply providing credit is not enough; farmers also need tools to protect their investments from unforeseen events.
Localized Solutions and Regional Adaptation
The program’s responsiveness to local needs – the inclusion of sorghum and white corn based on regional demand – highlights the importance of tailored solutions. A one-size-fits-all approach to agricultural policy is often ineffective. Successful programs will be those that are designed with a deep understanding of the specific challenges and opportunities facing farmers in different regions.
FAQ
Q: What crops are currently eligible for the “Cosechando Soberanía” program?
A: Temporary sorghum (up to 20 hectares) and irrigated white corn (up to 20 hectares).
Q: What is the benefit of the insurance component of the program?
A: The insurance protects up to 25% more than the loan amount, with an assured yield of 1.8 tons per hectare and a 15% deductible.
Q: Who is involved in the implementation of this program?
A: The program is a collaboration between the Secretary of Rural Development, Fisheries and Aquaculture (SADER), FIRA, SFI, and local municipalities.
Q: How can farmers access the credit program?
A: Farmers must first obtain an eligibility certificate and then submit a formal financing request.
Did you know? The program’s insurance component offers a significantly improved level of protection compared to initial proposals, demonstrating a commitment to safeguarding farmer investments.
Pro Tip: Contact your local SADER office or FIRA representative to learn more about the eligibility requirements and application process.
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