On the night of this second (21), Vice President and Minister of Development, Industry and Commerce, Geraldo Alckmin, commented on the meeting with representatives of US technology companies. At a press conference, Alckmin stressed the “good dialogue” established, even if Pix and the tax announced by President Donald Trump have not been detailed.
Included last minute on the official agenda, the meeting took place this afternoon at Planalto Palace and was attended by representatives of Meta, Google, Apple, Visa and Expedia. Coordinated by the vice president, members of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Farm also attended the meeting.
“We hear the digital economy sector. Technology companies are important investors in Brazil and have the potential to grow in the country,” said Geraldo Alckmin. “They have kept sending us some questions that are most relevant. So we opened a good dialogue,” he added.
When asked about the taxation of the Big Techs – agenda raised again by President Lula – the minister stated that the representatives present at the meeting “did not even touch the matter.” Another topic of discussion was the tariff announced by US President Donald Trump.
Last week, the US government opened a commercial investigation against Brazil for alleged unfair practices. The document cites decisions that limit Big Techs’ performance in Brazil and Pix, which would impair US financial companies. “It is an absolute success and [as empresas de tecnologia] They said they defend the so -called Pix to everyone and is an example to the world, ”said Alckmin after the meeting. He also reiterated that some questions discussed should be dealt with with the executive but the approach can be made through this first contact.
Agreement between Mercosur and the European Union
The vice president also mentioned the meeting held among Mercosur representatives with parliamentarians from the European Union. “President Lula forwarded the largest agreement between two economic blocks in the world, which has been awaited for over 20 years,” he said.
The negotiation involves 27 European countries and about $ 22 trillion. In addition to the economic importance, Alckmin points out his geopolitical relevance. “It is a message of appreciation for democracy, free trade, multilateralism and sustainability,” he said. According to the minister, the signing of the agreement should be made by the end of this year.
Beatriz Hadler under the supervision of Thiago San.
