Economic situation Great potential, structural weaknesses

In 2014, after a long period of stable growth, Brazil slid into an economic crisis. In 2015 and 2016, gross domestic product (GDP) fell by more than three per cent. The country experienced a strong rise in public debt and a massive increase in unemployment. Between 2017 and 2019, there was a slight recovery.

Since 2020, economic development has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. That being said, by borrowing so as to provide financial assistance to help businesses, the Brazilian government has done a better job of limiting the economic slump than many other countries in the region. However, because of the support measures, public debt has continued to rise.

Disadvantaged and vulnerable groups have been especially hard hit by the pandemic – poverty and inequality have risen significantly (see also: Social situation). The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is predicting that Brazil’s economy will only experience weak growth over the next few years.

Export-oriented agricultural sector

The country’s long-term economic potential is huge. Brazil is rich in natural resources and has a broad-based industrial sector and a well-trained workforce. Its agricultural sector makes an important contribution towards world food security. Brazil is one of the world’s biggest producers of coffee, sugar, meat and soya. One challenge that remains is developing and implementing strategies for sustainable use of the country’s vast natural resources in line with the goal of conserving the natural forests.

to the overview page on Brazil

As at: 21/04/2022