Petrobras actions in managing the supply chain for the Quixada biodiesel plant

Abstract

The National Program for Production and Use of Biodiesel (PNPB) involves environmental, social and economic dimensions. It has set incentives to encourage firms and producers to participate in this increasing market. Petrobras Biofuels, a subsidiary of Petrobras, produces biodiesel and has established relationships with various stakeholders, including those in the supply chain. In particular, the paper looks at the production of the plant in Quixada, Ceará State, and its supply chain in the semi-arid Northeast of Brazil. The research was qualitative and conducted through interviews with the General Manager and the Sector Supply Manager of the Quixadá plant. The paper analyses the basic assumptions underlying Petrobras operations in this market; the supply chain structure; actions taken to link Quixadá Biodiesel Plant with family farmers; and the challenges posed by PNPB in the development of the biodiesel market. The results show that the supply chain lacks structure and the company is facing challenges in logistic, technological and organizational areas.