From neo-corporatism to policy networks in Brazil: the case of lobbying for port reform

Resumo

The article presents some theoretical insights from policy network analysis that apply to Brazil and considers some empirical aspects related to evolving network-like structures and processes focused on improving systemic competitiveness in Brazil, with reference to the case of port reform. Notwithstanding signs of gross corruption exposed in the Lava-Jato case, research provided evidence of how business utilised organised collective action within corporatist institutions (such as CNI) and even newly developed policy networks (such as AEI) to articulate its interests in a public interest regarding and development enhancing manner. The article argues that business interest representation has successfully adapted to the democratic context and there are many signs of good governance practices that could support the considerable socio-economic transformation that lies ahead in Brazil’s development path.