Impacto das operações do FNE Proinfra sobre a economia dos municípios do Nordeste do Brasil

Abstract

The Northeast of Brazil faces historical structural challenges that limit its economic and social development. The lack of infrastructure in the region, reflected in deficiencies in access to transportation, sanitation, energy and telecommunications, compromises productivity, hinders the attraction of investments and perpetuates regional inequalities. In this context, the FNE Proinfra program emerges as an essential instrument to promote infrastructure and boost the economic growth of the northeastern municipalities. In short, this policy consists of a line of financing whose objective is to expand economic infrastructure services, as support for productive activities, in the region covered. Economic literature suggests that these investments increase productivity and boost regional growth. This research aims to evaluate the impacts of FNE Proinfra on the economy of northeastern municipalities, based on econometric analyses, using the scaled difference-in-differences method. The results indicate that the program had positive effects on GDP per capita. Thus, FNE Proinfra proves to be an essential tool for the sustainable development of the region. The continuity and expansion of this type of program are fundamental to reducing inequalities and promoting balanced and inclusive growth in Brazil.