Rio Grande do Sul has suffered, as all states have, during the COVID-19 pandemic. RS was in full fiscal adjustment and economic recovery after a debt restructuring agreement with the Federal Government going into the pandemic. Consequently, the Gross State Product (GSP) dropped 7% in 2020, despite a sharp rebound in the second half of the year. Amidst having to fight the virus by providing extra support to hospitals and to those most in need, the Leite administration pressed forward with reforms. Through extensive negotiations, the government was able to reform the state’s civil servant social security system, with immediate effects on the deficit. The government also returned to privatizing roads and other concessions.

Join us for a discussion with Governor Eduardo Leite about the challenges that RS has faced, different policies, and prospects for the future.

Please click here to view Governor Leite’s bio.