Research funding cuts will curb recovery in Brazil

Significance

Financial constraints on public research and development (R&D) have been worsening over years. The suspension of tax-free imports in late May adds further uncertainty to ongoing research, with many imports focusing on the development of new vaccines and drugs against COVID-19.

Impacts

• Federal public universities, already experiencing large budget cuts, are likely to suspend some R&D and investments.
• Scientific development and research will not be a priority for the current government.
• Bolsonaro’s criticism of universities may prompt interference in their activities.
• Lack of public financing for R&D raises additional questions over Brazil’s recovery.