Mexico, Brazil Commit to Joint Environmental, Social Policies

Business leaders and representatives from Mexico and Brazil emphasized their commitment to implementing joint environmental and social policies aimed at addressing global sustainability challenges during the Mexico–Brazil Business Forum 2024. 

The forum, organized by Brazil’s Export and Import Promotion Agency (ApexBrasil) and the Mexican Business Council for Foreign Trade, Investment and Technology (COMCE), focused on industrial strategies and the integration of economic, social, and environmental sustainability, and featured discussions on how both countries can collaborate to achieve sustainable growth in the face of global challenges. 

Uallace Moreira, Brazil’s Minister of Development, Industry, Commerce, and Services, highlighted the need for closer cooperation between the two nations to promote sustainable growth. He stressed that aligning industrial policies with global sustainability challenges is crucial for long-term success. “Brazil seeks a balance between economic, environmental, and social benefits. It is essential to align our industrial policies with the global sustainability challenges we face,” Moreira said.

A key point of discussion was the differing industrial policies of the two nations. Mexico is focused on strengthening its position as a major global exporter, with its economy closely tied to the United States. Brazil, on the other hand, is developing a strategy aimed at attracting foreign direct investment to bolster its local industry and key sectors, such as energy and technology.

The sustainability theme was further explored by Griscelda Hilda Ramos, Sustainability Director, Natura México, who outlined the company's commitment to environmental and social sustainability. She explained that this focus is essential to Natura’s expansion in Mexico and global operations. “At Natura, we have learned that it is not just about making profits, but also generating social impact and caring for the environment in every country where we operate,” said Ramos.

Walker Lahmann, Representative, Eurofarma, spoke about the importance of local production and regulatory convergence in the pharmaceutical sector, particularly considering the challenges posed by the pandemic. He emphasized that local production autonomy is critical for ensuring supplies during crises, a goal that both Mexico and Brazil must work together to achieve.

Panelists agreed that greater economic integration between the two countries could strengthen their positions in global value chains, particularly in sectors like pharmaceuticals and advanced manufacturing. They concluded that strengthening ties between Mexico and Brazil is crucial to overcoming shared challenges such as climate change and the need for sustainable economic growth.