Recife, Brazil » City Info » Economy

Recife is the largest metropolitan area and one of the most prominent economic and business centres in the north-eastern region of Brazil. Its main industrial area is located just to the south of Recife city.

The State of Pernambuco is the fifth-largest metropolitan state in Brazil. Recife has a booming economy, as two ports support it. One is in the town itself, and the other is the Port of Suape, 40km away. The Guararapes International Airport of Recife connects with other Brazilian cities and can handle 9 million passengers per annum.

Brazil is well known for its large alcohol fuel production (fermenting ethanol from sugarcane and sugar beets). The State of Pernambuco itself is the 5th highest sugarcane producer in the country. Whereas Brazil annually manufactures around 18 billion litres of alcohol, of which 3.5 billion are exported. Alcohol fuel is used as an alternative fuel for hybrid fuel car engines called “Flex”, and this industry plays a vital role in the country’s economy.

The IT industry also contributes to the economy of Recife. The industry is located in a region called “Porto Digital” or “Digital Port”, which attracts investments worldwide. It produces computer chips and software, which are exported to China, Japan, and other countries.

The second but the chief port of the city, Suape port, operates ships throughout the year. It has a monitoring and laser ship docking system that asserts the same technical standards among other important ports worldwide. The port transports over 5 million tons of cargo every year, contributing to the city’s growth.

Some of the industries that have made their mark in the city include Beer canning, brewing, Automotive electronics, Tube manufacturing, Textiles, Automotive, and Aluminum. Chocolate manufacturing and the Food Industry also make a significant contribution to the economy.

Grande Recife, i.e. the Metropolitan Region of Recife, offers superb tourist attractions. Some of them are located in Recife, while some are outside the city limits. The area is famous for its pristine beaches, colonial architecture, carnival, arts, and cuisine. Tourism plays a significant and vital role in the economy of the city.

Recife has the second-largest medical team in Brazil, next to Sao Paolo. The city has 417 hospitals and clinics with 82,000 beds, contributing a total of 220 million R$. Many people from the neighbouring cities and states come to Recife for treatment as it offers the latest technology and the best services in the north-eastern part of Brazil.