Diversified economy
Rio Grande do Sul has one of the five largest economies among Brazilian states, accounting for 6.22% of the country’s GDP (IBGE, 2013). Also, its industrial center ranks among the largest of its kind in Brazil, accounting for 8.97% (IBGE, 2013) of the national processing industry, and has an expressive participation in the segment, ranking third in Brazil.
The importance of the processing industry to Rio Grande do Sul’ economy is attested by its contribution to the state’s GDP (17.6%), well above the national average of 12.3% (PIA, 2014). The composition of the state’s economy is shown in the chart below:
The processing industry is highly diversified and originated from activities related to agribusiness and the primary sector. The main segments are food, metal-mechanic, transport equipment, chemicals, plastic materials and furniture. All these sectors are active in the export market. The detailed composition is shown below:
Rio Grande do Sul’s processing industry has a significant share in the national market in various segments, as follows:
Brazil’s largest industrial park (% national production):
● Tobacco – 49.7%¹
● Leather and Footwear – 29.0%¹
● Automation²
● Biodiesel – 28%³
● Agricultural and road machinery – 46.7%4
● Wines – approximately 90%5
● Vehicle trailers and truck bodies
Brazil’s second largest industrial park (% national production):
● Metal products – 13.5%¹
● Machinery and equipment – 16.8%¹
● Furniture – 20.9%¹
Brazil’s third largest industrial park (% national production):
● Rubber and plastic products – 8.4%¹
Brazil’s fourth largest industrial park (% national production):
● Food – 7.9%¹
● Wood products – 8.3%¹
● Chemicals – 9.2%¹
● Automobiles – 9.1%6
● Vessels, aircraft, military vehicles and other transport equipment – 6.7%¹
¹ Pesquisa Industrial Anual - Empresa, 2014. IBGE. http://www.ibge.gov.br/home/estatistica/economia/industria/pia/empresas/2014/defaultempresa.shtm
² ABINEE
³ Boletim Mensal Julho 2016, ANP
4 ANFAVEA 2015
5 IBRAVIN’s estimate
6 Anfavea, 2016
