Brazil deepens partnerships in nuclear technology.

Radiopharmaceuticals and cooperation with China mark a week of technological advances.

Brazil intensified its bets on cutting-edge technology this week, highlighting bilateral cooperation in radiopharmaceuticals and strengthening the country's position in global innovation. On Thursday (13), the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Luciana Santos, met with the President of the Council of the China Isotope and Radiation Corporation (Circ), Xiao Yafei, in Brasília, to expand the partnership in the production of radiopharmaceuticals — essential inputs for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and other diseases.

Technological autonomy in focus

During the meeting, authorities discussed expanding national production through the Institute for Energy and Nuclear Research (IPEN), as well as technology sharing and transfer. The central objective is to ensure greater technological autonomy for Brazil in the health sector, reducing external dependence.

According to Xiao Yafei, the partnership could advance throughout 2026, with the creation of a subsidiary in Brazil and the formation of a specialized team. Practical issues, such as tax aspects of importing inputs, are under discussion between the countries.

Sustainable innovation at COP30

Meanwhile, Brazil reaffirmed its commitment to climate innovation during COP30 in Belém. Finep announced three new public calls for proposals, including the Pró-Amazônia call, which aims to... R$ 150 million for research infrastructure in the Legal Amazon.. Between 2023 and now, more than 400 startups have been supported by programs such as Tecnova, Centelha, and Inovacred.

Priority themes include decarbonization of transport, sustainable fuels, energy generation and storage, bioeconomy, and circular economy.

Health and technology at FISweek

The previous week, FISweek 2025 — described as the largest health innovation and trends event in Latin America — brought together approximately ten thousand people over three days, with 700 speakers across 14 stages. The central debate revolved around the role of technology in ensuring accessibility and equity in the healthcare system.

Experts have warned of the need to reduce Brazil's technological dependence. Former Health Minister José Gomes Temporão highlighted that 90% of the active ingredients for medicines are imported., reinforcing the urgency of public policies that strengthen national production.

Photo by Tao Yuan on Unsplash