Aécio Neves da Cunha Governor of Minas Gerais

In less than two years, Aécio Neves da Cunha, Governor of Minas Gerais, has imposed a new order of management that has lifted the Brazilian state out of debt and into an ever-growing role as a prime destination for investment. A thorough reform of public administration processes and the introduction of private-sector practices have led to a much-lauded zero budget deficit.

The challenge remains to increase investment and add value to export products. Minas Gerais is already the second-largest exporter in Brazil, and is likely to grow the fastest over the next decade. The governor comments, “We are creating all the necessary conditions to expand existing investment and attract new investors.”

A new order of management has lifted the state out of debt and into an ever-growing role as a prime investment destination

In addition to a strategic geographical location for Latin American markets, and extensive transportation infrastructure, Minas has an extremely diversified economy and much potential for added-value industries. Eduardo Prates Octaviani Bernis, President of the Asociação Comercial de Minas (AC Minas), believes the new government has earned the confidence of the business sector thanks to its serious and modern approach. “Today Minas clearly understands that the state’s role is not that of an investor but that of a development promoter working as a partner with companies,” he says.

The second-most populous state in Brazil and the second largest in terms of exports, Minas Gerais is thriving with opportunity.