BNDES Strengthens Brazil’s Global Stance Amidst Commercial Disputes

President of the Brazilian National Development Bank (BNDES), Aloizio Mercadante, emphasized the need for a firm and autonomous position from Brazil in the international arena. This statement was made during the J. Safra Investment Conference held in São Paulo, an event that gathers investors, business leaders, and experts from around the world. According to Mercadante, Brazil should defend its interests with determination without compromising national independence. This stance comes against a global backdrop marked by commercial disputes, pursuit of new production chains, and race for strategic resources for energy transition. The BNDES plays a crucial role as an investment inducer, seeking closer collaboration between the public and private sectors in the country. According to Mercadante, the bank does not intend to return to its historical size achieved during the global financial crisis of 2008, which reached up to 4% of GDP, but maintains significant growth in its operations. Concretely, last year the BNDES mobilized R$366 billion, equivalent to R$1 billion per day, with an increase in consultations, approvals, and disbursements during the first half of this year. This effort is crucial for maintaining Brazil's economic competitiveness in a more complex global environment. The BNDES' actions reflect a national strategy to strengthen local industry and ensure Brazil’s international presence amid growing commercial and economic confrontation.