Plant breeding programs conducted by Embrapaand partners have significantly contributed to major qualitative and quantitative advances achieved by the Brazilian agriculture over the last 40 years. In this article, an overview of the diversity of crop species and the multiple goals established by Embrapa's plant breeding programs is presented, highlighting some of the main contributions to the agricultural sector. The economic, social. and environmental impacts of the major cultivars released by Embrapa are reviewed and an analysis of the present and future role of the institution in cultivar improvement for tropical and subtropical regions is provided. Risks, opportunities and challenges of this endeavor are discussed, considering the recent market changes and innovations observed in the seed industry in Brazil.
Plant breeding; technological innovations; seed market; cultivars