The Government of Santa Catarina took another significant step on June 21, 2025, in its discussions with PowerChina in Beijing—a Chinese giant with global operations in infrastructure, energy, and technology.
The central focus of the meeting was the potential installation of a large-scale data center in Santa Catarina, a strategic initiative to boost digital transformation and the development of artificial intelligence (AI) in the state.
“The world is experiencing a digital revolution driven by artificial intelligence, and Santa Catarina will not be left behind,” highlighted Governor Jorginho Mello. “We want to attract investments that solidify the state’s position as a national benchmark in technology and innovation.”
The Mayor of Joinville, Adriano Bornschein Silva, explained that Joinville is highly attractive for investments, citing its advantageous industrial and logistics districts. There are plans for the construction of 30 schools and hospitals under a PPP (Public-Private Partnership) model, valued at approximately BRL 1 billion.
During the meeting, PowerChina representatives presented the company’s robust international operations, which include a portfolio of over USD 200 billion in contracts worldwide. In Brazil, the company has already invested heavily in solar energy in the state of Ceará alone, including a solar park with an investment of BRL 1.8 billion and a capacity of 343 MW. This demonstrates its capability to execute large-scale projects.
The meeting also covered the Export Processing Zone (ZPE) of Imbituba—a model that offers tax incentives and logistical advantages for companies interested in investing in the region.
Looking ahead, the State of Santa Catarina anticipates future investments exceeding USD 4.5 billion in the construction of the Bolivia-Brazil gas pipeline extension.
Furthermore, the meeting opened pathways for future partnerships in logistics infrastructure, with an emphasis on railway projects aimed at improving the transportation and distribution of goods produced in Santa Catarina.
This initiative is part of the Santa Catarina Government’s international mission, which is currently pursuing a strategic agenda in China this week with the goal of attracting new investments to the state.