Technological development in Minas Gerais brazil.

Economic development potential and experiences in the Minas Gerais region of Brazil are discussed. Previously important in agricultural and mineral production in Brazil the area has declined in importance since 1930. The state decided to make a determined development effort in the early 1970s. This development plan called for diversification of production improvement of production processes and concentration of effort on the neediest regions. These activities increased real growth for the region. A technological center was created to deal with the technological problems of the productive system. The Centro Tecnologico de Minas Gerais (CETEC) was established to foster research in the following areas: 1) natural resources; 2) energy; 3) human resources; and 4) environment. Ways in which this research is helping the local development area are discussed. It is hoped that economic recovery in the area will be accomplished by utilization of local natural resources minimal damage to the environment and extensive training of local personnel.