Sichuan's Influence in 50 Years of Trade and Progress Between China and Brazil

Exploring the significance of Sichuan in the context of China-Brazil relations, this article delves into the historical journey of trade and cooperation over the past five decades. Highlighting key milestones and initiatives, it showcases how Sichuan has contributed to strengthening the partnership between the two nations.

Sichuan's Influence in 50 Years of Trade and Progress Between China and Brazil
China and Brazil are marking the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations, a milestone highlighted by the longstanding performance of hydro turbines from Sichuan that have been powering Brazil's energy needs for over ten years, symbolizing the fortified economic and trade bonds between the two nations.

In Deyang, located in Sichuan Province of southwest China, tests are underway for a new model of hydro turbine. Over ten years ago, 22 of these turbines were produced at this same factory and shipped to Brazil, where they have been successfully operating along the Madeira River since then.

"The 22 turbines are performing well," Yan Zhiyong, the President of Dongfang Electric Machinery, informed CN.

Yan recently visited the Jirau Hydropower Station in Brazil, which has transitioned to full operation under Brazilian management.

"They are performing better than other units operating on the same platform," stated Yan.

Yan highlighted that these turbines from China offer a 0.39 percent higher efficiency than those from other leading global suppliers, which translates to an additional 40 million kilowatt-hours of electricity produced per unit annually under identical conditions.

Given that hydropower accounts for more than 70 percent of Brazil's electricity generation, firms like Dongfang Electric are eyeing opportunities for growth and increased collaboration.

"Through this visit, we learned that Brazil's hydropower installations will continue to be upgraded according to the needs of the power grid," Yan commented. "We hope to seize such opportunities to provide them with the best technologies – for the development of Brazil's new energy sector."

The Jirau Hydropower Project stands as the most significant hydropower contract between China and Brazil in terms of both installed capacity and agreement scale. However, numerous other sectors are also poised for new cooperative ventures.

In April, a delegation from Sichuan Province visited Brazil, which was followed by the establishment of a new Brazilian consulate general in Chengdu in June, aimed at easing visa issuance for residents of southwest China.

Cezar Amaral, the consul general of Brazil in Chengdu, stated that the consulate is working on setting up a technological cooperation sector and a trade promotion sector "so Chinese companies from this region would be able to have their appropriate contacts."

Moreover, Amaral mentioned an upcoming visit from a commercial mission of the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso to Chengdu in early September.

Leveraging Sichuan's capabilities and Brazil's distinctive products, the partnership between the two regions is anticipated to broaden to encompass tourism, agriculture, cultural exchanges, and educational programs.

Aarav Patel for TROIB News