The Rio Grande do Norte was the state that received more foreign investment in the first semester of this year, with no less than U.S. $ 10.9 million, or $ 21.4 million raised. The volume represents an increase of 62.69% over the same period last year or an escalation of two positions in the ranking, which leaves behind Sao Paulo and Ceara, before the first and second placed. The survey is the General Coordination of Immigration, the Ministry of Labour and Employment and also shows the amount equivalent to 30% of the total funds invested by foreigners in the country, from January to June. According to information disclosed by the government of the state, the tourist and real estate sectors were the main beneficiaries in the period with the figure, coming from countries like Italy, Spain and Portugal, a total of 100 investors. ''In these places, the government of the state intensified the work of dissemination of Rio Grande do Norte, marking presence in large-scale events, such as the Madrid Real Estate Fair, held just over two months'', wrote the advice of the press government in the text sent to newspapers. The report attempted to speak with Secretary of State Planning, Vagner Araujo on the subject, but by press time he had not responded to e-mail we send, at their request. The idea was to collect, for example, estimates for the rest of the year taking into account other projects planned. Although he has not responded, it is possible to analyse the trend of the numbers is growing. Data from the government point to the high, if the deployment of tens of other projects announced is achieved. To get an idea, two of the largest groups of Spanish property market have already announced the construction of resorts and condominiums that together will cost about $ 1.2 billion. In the energy area, the Australian Pacific Hydro only awaiting the opening of auction by the federal government to enable to build wind power plants in newborns, with the forecast of investing as little as $ 1.5 billion.
(Diario de Natal – 25-08-08)