Brazil and China ink memorandums for “new industrialization”
Brazil and China are signing memorandums aimed at a “new industrialization” in Brazil, founded on “sustainable bases, with technological innovation and investment in strategic sectors.” In the collaboration, the Brazilian Ministry of Development, Industry, Commerce, and Services will be responsible for industrial investment, digital economy, and trade facilitation.
“The talks in each area will also be guided by environmental issues, given the importance of the topic for the Chinese and the Brazilian governments. Among the matters of environmental interest is the attraction of investments in renewable energy, green infrastructure, sustainable forest management, technology, and innovation,” the ministry reported.
In a statement, Brazil’s acting President Geraldo Alckmin noted that, besides being a key commercial partner, China can help Brazil occupy a prominent place in Industry 4.0—the so-called fourth industrial revolution, characterized by artificial intelligence, robotics, the internet of things, and cloud computing.
“There is synergy between China’s Made In China 2025 project and the way of thinking of the ministry restored by President Lula. The two nations want to develop innovative products and streamline their industrial production. The exchange of knowledge between the nations is crucial at such a moment,” said Alckmin, who also leads the ministry.
Industrial cooperation
The industrial cooperation memorandum has the private sector as its main actor, the ministry declared. In it, investment and technological exchange encompass mining, energy, infrastructure and logistics (roads, railroads, ports, pipelines), manufacturing (cars, machinery, construction, household appliances), high technology (drugs, medical equipment, information technology, biotechnology, nanotechnology, aerospace), and agriculture.
Digital economy
On digital economy, talks are expected to lead to “building an economic infrastructure capable of integrating intelligent interactive technology with activities such as advanced manufacturing, circulation of goods, transportation, business, finance, education, and health care.” It encompasses, the ministry stated, broadband networks, satellite navigation, data processing centers, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, 5G technology, and smart cities.
Trade
The memorandum on trade focuses on the elimination of barriers and the adoption of good trade and regulatory practices in topics of bilateral interest, in addition to establishing efficient communication channels, offering support for businesses participating in trade fairs, and providing expeditious customs procedures for circulation, clearance, and dispatching.
