Amazon policies will boost Brazil's foreign relations

Significance

After four years of rising deforestation and international criticism, the new government is showing a strong commitment to environmental issues. Leading activists Marina Silva and Sonia Guajajara have been named as heads of the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change and the new Ministry of Indigenous Peoples, respectively.

Impacts

• International investors will be key to boosting Brazil’s new environmental efforts.
• Agribusiness may present a key obstacle, even though its export prospects could be boosted by better environmental management.
• Recently announced measures will need time and consistent application if they are to revert deforestation.