THE TECHNOLOGY IN A CONTROLLED SECTOR: THE CASE OF THE SUGAR-CANE INDUSTRY IN SÃO PAULO, BRAZIL

Abstract

This study examined how the sugar cane research system works in the State of Sao Paulo, Brazil. The evolution of the sugar-cane industry was analyzed, with an emphasis on the technological "leaps" observed along the last decades. The operation of the public research institutions and of the Copersucar Technology Center (owned by one of the largest economic conglomerates in Brazil) were compared and a virtual division of objectives and criterions was observed as related to the research lines under execution in both entities. It also became clear how investment return occurs in a private research institution, and its specificities as a sector under Government control. Some considerations were presented on the development of sugar-cane in Brazil and on the possible technological challenges to be faced within the coming years.