In 2023, Minas Gerais, a vast continental state in southeastern Brazil and one of the 27 federal units in the country, stood out as the national leader in cotton production, achieving the highest efficiency in lint across the nation, with a remarkable average of 2,045 kg per hectare during the 2022/2023 harvest, as reported by the Brazilian Cotton Producers Association (Abrapa). This notable achievement is a direct result of effective initiatives promoted by the Programa Mineiro de Estímulo à Cultura do Algodão (Proalminas), which propelled the cotton sector in the state.
Minas Gerais, the fourth-largest state in terms of territorial area and the second-most populous, with a population of 20,539,989 inhabitants, historically demonstrated exponential growth in the cotton sector, with figures reaching 978 kg per hectare in the 2004/2005 harvest. In recent years, thanks to the incentives provided by Proalminas, the program has granted tax exemptions to the industry, which, in turn, commits to acquiring a significant quota of cotton from talented Minas Gerais producers, further strengthening the local production chain.
Amidst this scenario of prosperity, Amed, the largest hospital textile industry in Latin America, also stands out. In 2024, the company plans a substantial expansion, aiming not only to strengthen its presence in the domestic market but also to export its high-quality hospital products internationally. Amed intends to bring its expertise beyond borders, contributing to the global recognition of the Brazilian healthcare industry.
Situated in Minas Gerais, Amed conducts the entire process of transforming, packaging, sterilizing, and delivering its products using its own fleet, solidifying the state as a strategic hub for the production and distribution of essential healthcare items.
It is estimated that, for every unit of fiscal incentive granted by the government, Minas Gerais receives a significant return of R$ 1.42 to its economy, reflecting not only excellence in cotton production but also a positive impact across various sectors.
photomontage: by Vinícius Pascoal