
Tatiana Bokova, Intern of the Russian National Committee on BRICS Research – special for InfoBRICS
China and Brazil, as comprehensive strategic partners with a long-standing friendship, have achieved significant results in bilateral practical cooperation. China's rapid economic growth and expanding global influence have transformed it into a major economic power, while Brazil, with its vast natural resources and growing industrial base, has become a key player in Latin America and beyond. The convergence of the two countries' paths has resulted in a strong and complex partnership that encompasses trade, investment, political co-operation, cultural exchange and technological interaction.
At the regular ministerial meeting, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi asserted that Sino-Brazilian relations have demonstrated resilience in the face of challenging changes in the international landscape. Since the commencement of a comprehensive strategic dialogue at the foreign ministerial level a decade ago, there has been a notable enhancement in mutual trust, a deeper level of communication, and a broader prospect for cooperation in various fields. Both parties recognise and support each other on matters pertaining to their core interests and major concerns. This provides a robust foundation for the sound and enduring growth of Sino-Brazilian relations. The Chinese side is prepared to collaborate with the Brazilian side to utilise the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Brazil as an opportunity to enhance the convergence of development strategies, expand new domains and unlock new potential for collaboration, thereby providing a new impetus and opening up new prospects for the bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership.
China and Brazil established official diplomatic relations in 1974, which have since developed into a strong partnership. The China-Brazil Strategic Partnership, initiated in 1993, marked a significant milestone, fostering collaboration across various sectors. High-level visits, such as Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro's 2019 state visit to China, have reinforced this relationship. During this visit, Bolsonaro and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed deepening economic and technological cooperation. Both states actively collaborate in international organizations, reflecting their shared interests. China and Brazil are key members of the BRICS group, where they promote economic development and political dialogue among emerging economies. A notable example is the New Development Bank, established in 2014, which supports infrastructure projects in BRICS countries, including Brazil.
To illustrate, in January 2024, the foreign ministers of both countries co-chaired the Fourth China-Brazil Foreign Ministers’ Comprehensive Strategic Dialogue. In light of the growing global influence of China-Brazil relations, both parties expressed their willingness to strengthen strategic coordination within the UN, G20, BRICS and the World Trade Organization. Furthermore, the Chinese side has expressed its support for Brazil in hosting the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro and has indicated its adherence to the prevailing direction of global governance. China is prepared to collaborate with Brazil in pursuit of an equitable and orderly multipolar world order and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalisation.
China and Brazil have developed a robust economic relationship, characterized by substantial trade and investment flows. Over the past two decades, China has become Brazil’s largest trading partner, surpassing the United States and the European Union. The trade between the two countries is predominantly based on complementary needs: China imports vast quantities of raw materials and agricultural products from Brazil, while Brazil imports manufactured goods and technology from China. It is important to note that trade cooperation between two states is not limited to commodities, but also extends to technology, infrastructure, and finance. According to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, bilateral trade reached $157.5 billion in 2023, with national exports totalling $104.3 billion and imports $53.2 billion, leaving Brazil with a surplus of $51.1 billion. Transactions with China accounted for almost 52 percent of Brazil’s total trade surplus last year. Brazil is expected to become one of China’s fastest-growing import destinations, and new economic opportunities are likely to emerge for every sector of the Brazilian economy. Brazilian exports to China are expected to grow by 8-12 percent per year until 2030 (compared to a global average of 6-9 per cent), with this range reflecting low and high growth scenarios for China.
In terms of investment, the penetration of Chinese companies in Brazil shows a growing trend. China is gradually becoming Brazil’s most important investor. Brazil has always been the first destination for Chinese investment in Latin America. At present, there are over 200 Chinese-funded enterprises in Brazil, and their investments cover oil, mining, electricity, manufacturing, finance, agriculture, services, wholesale and retail trade and other fields. A notable example is the acquisition of a majority stake in Brazil’s electricity giant CPFL Energia by China’s State Grid Corporation. This investment not only highlights China’s interest in Brazil’s energy sector, but also its strategic goal of securing long-term access to vital resources.
One of the most promising areas between the two countries is infrastructure development. Both nations have major infrastructure development programmes, and cooperation between them could significantly accelerate this process. China and Brazil are already cooperating on large-scale projects such as the One Belt, One Road initiative, the construction of a railway line that will connect the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean through the Amazon, and the construction of ports and airports.
The Belt and Road Initiative has taken root in Latin America in the following ways. First, China is involved in infrastructure connectivity in Latin America, and Chinese companies are involved in major infrastructure projects in the region. China Railway Group, one of the world’s largest construction companies and an important participant and force in the Belt and Road Initiative, has a permanent office in Brazil. Song Godong, chief accountant of China Railway Overseas Engineering Co., Ltd., said that China Railway has actively participated in Brazil’s infrastructure construction and developed important projects such as the Liangyan Railway and the São Paulo Intercity Railway. Second, agricultural cooperation between China and Latin America has been booming, and China has become one of Brazil’s most important agricultural partners. For example, the Lagoa-Dubaru wind farm expansion project in northeastern Brazil was launched, bringing complete Chinese wind power equipment to the country.
The two sides are also cooperating in the energy sector. In 2018, China Three Gorges Corporation acquired the Brazilian energy company Duke Energy Brazil for $1.2 billion. In addition, Chinese companies are already actively investing in Brazil’s renewable energy sector, such as wind and solar power. The next area is technology cooperation. For example, Chinese company Huawei has announced plans to build its largest 5G research and development centre in Brazil, which will not only strengthen cooperation in the telecommunications sector, but also contribute to the development of Brazil’s digital economy.
China and Brazil have a rich history of collaboration in technological and scientific research, contributing significantly to advancements in various fields. One of the most prominent examples of their joint efforts is the China-Brazil Earth Resources Satellite (CBERS) program. Initiated in 1988, CBERS has resulted in the launch of multiple satellites aimed at monitoring Earth’s resources, environmental protection, and urban planning. This program not only enhances both countries’ technological capabilities but also provides valuable data for sustainable development. Another example is the collaboration in agricultural research. Institutions from both countries, such as the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa) and the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), work together on projects to improve crop yields, pest resistance, and sustainable farming practices. These joint research initiatives help address global food security challenges and promote agricultural innovation.
China and Brazil are experiencing a range of significant developments in educational and cultural collaboration, fueled by their mutual dedication to enhancing education, facilitating academic interactions, and encouraging the exchange of knowledge. First trend is increased student mobility. More Chinese students are choosing to study in Brazil due to the diverse academic programs, cultural experience, and the opportunity to learn Portuguese. Similarly, Brazilian students are opting to pursue higher education in China to benefit from the renowned universities and gain exposure to a different educational system and culture.
For instance, upon the request of the Chinese-Foreign Language Cooperation Center of the Ministry of Education, the School of Foreign Languages at East China University of Science and Technology (ECUST) and the Confucius Institute at FAAP Business School in Brazil collaborated to launch a cloud-based summer camp for Brazilian youth called "Discover China" at ECUST from February to March 2022.
Second trend is academic partnership and joint programs. Chinese and Brazilian universities have been actively establishing academic partnerships and joint programs. These collaborations allow for the exchange of knowledge, research collaborations, and joint degrees. Universities in both countries are forging strategic alliances to enhance academic cooperation, particularly in fields such as engineering, agriculture, environmental sciences, and business studies. Joint programs provide students with opportunities to receive dual degrees and benefit from the expertise of faculty from both countries.
Artistic collaborations are another key trend in the cultural relations between China and Brazil. These collaborations span various forms of art, including visual arts, music, dance, theater, and cinema, facilitating a rich exchange of creative ideas and expressions. For instance, the "China-Brazil Cultural Exchange Festival" exemplifies such artistic collaborations. This annual festival features performances by artists from both countries, showcasing a blend of traditional and contemporary art forms. This event includes music and dance performances, art exhibitions, and culinary events, providing a comprehensive cultural experience that highlights the artistic diversity and talents of both nations.
The multifaceted relationship between China and Brazil stands as a testament to the dynamic nature of modern international diplomacy. Through extensive economic cooperation, robust political ties, and innovative technological and cultural collaborations, these two nations have established a partnership that is both resilient and forward-looking. Their joint efforts in sustainability and agricultural development further highlight their commitment to addressing global challenges and promoting mutual prosperity. The future of China-Brazil relations holds immense promise, driven by a shared vision of sustainable growth, cultural understanding, and technological advancement. Through continued collaboration and a commitment to mutual benefit, both countries are well-positioned to not only enhance their bilateral ties but also contribute significantly to the broader goals of global stability and development.