Brazil's infrastructure has been rated below the expected standard for a nation of its economic size and dimensions, according to the latest Infra-BR index released by the Federal Council of Engineering and Agronomy (Confea). The country achieved a score of 56.92 on a scale ranging from 0 to 100, an assessment covering all 27 federal units.
Vinicius Marchese, president of Confea, characterized the result as low, drawing a comparison to academic grading where a score below the average would mean failing to advance. He emphasized that while Brazil's continental size presents challenges, these difficulties should have already been overcome and do not justify the current situation. Marchese stated that the issue is not a lack of resources but rather a failure to prioritize infrastructure development.
The report highlights significant disparities between states and identifies specific areas driving the national score. Mobility, which encompasses logistics and transport across road, air, and port modes, recorded the lowest performance with 53.84 points. In contrast, the energy and connectivity axis achieved a higher result of 61.82 points.
The Infra-BR index was constructed using official data sources and evaluates six dimensions: water, basic sanitation, mobility, energy and connectivity, social well-being, and environment and resilience. These categories comprise more than 60 indicators related to coverage, quality, efficiency, and access to services. Marchese advocates for using these data points to guide investments and hold public managers accountable.
Basic sanitation was identified by the Confea president as a critical priority, noting that lack of access compromises life opportunities and affects children's school performance. He also called for greater alignment between federal, state, and municipal governments to address existing infrastructure deficits.
Sources: CNN Brasil.