Seven Out of Ten Brazilians Are Opposed to Further Privatizations

12/26/2017 - 12h15

A recent Datafolha survey found that 7 out of 10 Brazilians are opposed to the further privatization of state-owned companies.

Privatization is rejected by the majority of the survey's demographic groupings, independent of party affiliation or educational level. Only among those who earn more than 10 minimum salaries, 55% are in favor.

Residents of the North (78%) and the Northeast (76%) are more opposed to the sale of state-owned companies, like Eletrobras and Petrobras, as are those who say that they will vote for former president Lula (80%) of the PT Party in 2018.

The Southeast has the highest level of approval for privatizations (25%) - while 67% oppose them.

Privatization is even rejected by the majority of voters that normally support political parties in favor of reduced government ownership. Of those who say that they will vote for Geraldo Alckmin (PSDB Party), 55% are against privatizations. 58% of voters who declare support for Jair Bolsonaro (PSC Party) are against them.

Regarding a hypothetical privatization of Petrobras, 70% of those surveyed reject the idea while only 21% support it. The possible inclusion of foreign ownership in the state-owned company's capital structure has an even higher level of opposition: 78%.

The theme should gain prominence in the 2018 elections.

The continuation of divestment programs initiated by the current government is an essential criterion for maintaining investor support in long-term business opportunities in the country.

Translated by LLOYD HARDER

Read the article in the original language

	Ricardo Moraes/Reuters
	Brazil's state-run Petrobras oil company headquarters is pictured in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil