This study investigates the impact of internationalization on the results achieved by agricultural cooperatives in
the State of Parana, at the same time examining strategies for diversification of markets as well as diversification
of products aimed exclusively at international markets. Of the 28 cooperatives to be included in the study, 67.9%
returned valid structured questionnaires. The collected data was submitted to non-parametric statistical analysis.
Key findings suggest the following: external markets are served by indirect and direct exports; product
diversification strategies are motivated by the creation of revenue alternatives to members and by the reduction
of risks associated to agricultural business; diversification strategies are conceived to develop new business in
accordance with market demand and to expand customized products from the existing portfolio; the formation of
strategic alliances prioritizes access to distribution channels abroad; internationalization and diversification
strategies produce positive results both from an economic and a social perspective.
