The year of 2009 ended with a positive balance with regards to the world´s recovery after the crisis that shook the markets in 2008.

Large economies, such as the American economy, have found the strength to leave behind the worst recession of the century, but it was the good performance of emerging countries, with their incentive policies, that surprised the world by the good results they have shown.

It is in this optimistic scenario that we are starting 2010.
The trend is the continuity of the policies adopted until now, until we reach a minimum security level of recovery sustainability.

Perspectives of economic recovery in 2010 are still positive for the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India and China) as well as for the USA. Economic analysts expect the Brazilian GDP to grow around 5.6%, driven mainly by sectors such as domestic consumption.

Agricultural crops are planted and if the weather helps, although we have used less fertilizers, will result in a larger harvest, that will reach figures that, if not records, will be quite significant.

Growers are mature and know what to expect from their crops, since the fertilizers and animal feed manufacturers are expected to go through strong changes and change of owners, starting perhaps with the industry´s giant – Bunge - that may have its name changed to Vale do Rio Doce for sure.

However, the winds seem to blow favorably in 2010, in spite of the rain and of the novelties that we will have to face.

Good luck to all!

Elizabeth Chagas