Brazil also holds a noteworthy position in the chemical and textile industries, as well as in the pulp and paper sector. Brazil is the largest eucalyptus fiber producer worldwide. Like its supply of carbon-based fossil fuels, Brazil’s proven mineral resources are extensive. Large iron and manganese reserves are important sources of industrial raw materials and export earnings. Deposits of nickel, tin, chrome, bauxite, beryllium, copper, lead, tungsten, uranium, zinc, gold, silver and precious and semiprecious stones, as well as rarer minerals, are commercially mined.

Brazil has one of the most diversified manufacturing industries in the world, and the largest in Latin America. Brazil’s diverse industries include automobiles and parts, machinery and equipment, textiles, shoes, cement, computers, aircraft (including the first aircraft production facilities in the southern hemisphere) and consumer durables.

Petrobras, one of the largest companies in the world, is known for its oil and gas exploration capabilities in “ultra-deep water.” Brazil’s known oil reserves are ranked among the 20 largest in the world, particularly when taking the ultra-deep pre-salt reservoir into account.

Brazil’s fluvial network is the most extensive in the world, containing the largest volume of fresh water available worldwide, and placing the country among the leading producers of hydroelectric power. Hydroelectric plants provide most of the country’s electricity. Blessed with a variety and quantity of natural resources, a diversified industrial landscape, a sophisticated financial system and a large domestic market, Brazil is currently one of the most attractive investment destinations for foreign investors, especially as the people and government of Brazil are determined to maintain their commitment to modernizing the country, strengthening its currency and implementing the necessary reforms.