Rio, as Brazil’s second-largest city, has many advantages, and is certainly a well-positioned contender. But, to become the tech powerhouse it wants to be, Rio might benefit more from a rigorous self-assessment — something that would also benefit both Brazil and Latin America more broadly. Here are two main hurdles that we thought Rio de Janeiro needs to overcome to achieve tech hub status.
Everyone in Rio and Brazil uses Pix, the instant payment system created by the country’s central bank in 2020. QR codes and Pix codes are displayed inside taxi cabs, on small-store countertops, and by street vendors.
Rio de Janeiro, and Brazil at large, have what it takes. They share many of the flaws and challenges of their fellow Latin American countries, but also much of the promise contained in their well-established markets, their hardworking and educated citizens, and the riches of a vast and diverse land.