Science minister argues for re-industrialization of Brazil
Brazil’s Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation Paulo Alvim argued for the re-industrialization of Brazil as a state policy. The leader spoke at the Brazilian Industrial Congress on Machines and Equipment.
“This is a vital matter, as re-industrialization requires focus as well as the selection of segments where we have potential to be competitive, and strategies for adding value—especially solid efforts in research and development.”
Minister Alvim held a chair in the panel Innovation Policy and Industry 4.0 panel of the 7th edition of the event yesterday (Sep 19). Under the theme “necessary transformations,” the conference was organized by the country’s machinery and equipment association ABIMAQ.
The event discusses topics such as the modernization of industry based on technological evolution through investment in innovation, digital transformation, and industry 4.0, as well as the creation of policy guidelines on technology and innovation.
The official mentioned that the ministry has faced the challenge of building a national innovation policy since January 2019.
“The biggest challenge is Brazil’s reaching the 57th position on the global innovation index. It can really make the difference when we think about a new re-industrialization policy and a new country, with a new stance on the global stage. This innovation policy was built while we listened to society. More than that, public policy governance was built with the purpose of fostering innovation.”
Minister Alvim also talked about the evolution of startups in the country. “The effort made in partnership with the startup support ecosystem involving over 13 institutions at the federal level, plus the public and private actors that support Brazilian startups, have proved tremendously positive. The legal framework for startups has also seen a number of major strides.”
In his address, the minister also emphasized the importance of providing stability to sector policies. “When we talk about science, technology and innovation, we are talking about state policy and not government policy. It must be built alongside all the actors in the ecosystem.”
