Staple theory and regional inequality in the Contestado Region of Santa Catarina: external integration and primary production

Abstract

This article aims to present theoretical conceptions that explain the economic growth and development of the Contestado region, located in the state of Santa Catarina, based on the dynamics of interregional and international exports. The study is grounded in a literature review on development theories and regional characteristics, as well as the use of secondary data to assess regional economic performance. The analysis is guided by the Staple Theory, formulated in the Canadian context, which proposes a model of economic growth led by the export of primary goods. This theory seeks to understand how regional endowments of natural resources generate external demand, influence export dependency, and trigger production linkages and technological changes. In the Contestado region, timber exploitation and animal protein production remain key economic pillars. However, challenges related to the unequal distribution of wealth and political power persist. It is concluded that interregional trade holds equivalent weight to international exports in the local economic dynamics: in 2018, 37% of Santa Catarina’s processed meat demand was destined for international markets, and 30% for other Brazilian states. In the wood, furniture, and paper sector, 39% of the demand came from other regions of Brazil.

Keywords: economic development; production chains; interregional trade; primary export model; territorial integration.