This document analyzes the main changes that have taken place in agriculture and the rural milieu during the 2016-2017 period. It also considers the prospects and main trends in the region, in a context characterized by a slow and uneven global economic recovery in 2016, but with signs of an economic upturn in 2017, and by a continuous reduction in poverty, the poverty gap and income inequality, most likely driven by recent social policies and political efforts to promote economic development. In addition, the 2030 Agenda and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals have provided a new framework for action for the implementation of policies focused on economic growth, environmental protection and social inclusion.

This document examines the macroeconomic and sectoral context and the trends and outlook for crops, livestock, fisheries, forests and rural well-being, as well as the public policies and institutional framework for these sectors. Based on an analysis of the trends and prospects, each chapter offers a series of recommendations for the consideration of decision-makers, in an effort to help address the challenges posed by the global economic dynamics and to take advantage of opportunities. This edition also includes a special chapter on the Sustainable Development Goals of Agenda 2030, with the aim of providing guidance to decision-makers for the development of policies and tools that will strengthen the contribution of agriculture and rural areas to the achievement of those objectives from a comprehensive and systemic perspective.