How did boosting manufacturing in the Amazon pay off for Brazil?

NPR | By Jeff Guo

Published July 31, 2026 at 4:28 PM EDT

Many countries talk about wanting to boost manufacturing. Decades ago, Brazil did it. They lured international businesses to build a whole bunch of factories in the middle of the Amazon. So, with hindsight, was the plan a success? Planet Money goes to the Amazon to find out.

Jeff Guo

Jeff Guo (he/him) is a co-host and reporter for Planet Money, NPR's award-winning podcast that finds creative, entertaining ways to make sense of the complicated forces that move our economy. He joined the team in 2022.

SUSTAIN what matters. BUILD what’s next.

With federal funding eliminated, WKAR relies more than ever on community support to sustain essential services that remain freely available to everyone in mid-Michigan. Your support helps shape what comes next for public media in our region. The best way to support WKAR is by becoming a sustaining member today or by upgrading your current gift. Support WKAR TV Here | Support WKAR Radio Here.