Roberto Simonsen helped shape Brazil’s industrial policy and business institutions

Roberto Simonsen was a Brazilian economist, businessman and politician, born in Santos in 1889.

He helped establish the Federation of Industries of the State of São Paulo, known as Fiesp, and led it for several years.

He also supported the creation of institutions including Sesi and Senai.

Simonsen argued that the government should plan the economy, protect local industries and encourage industrial growth.

Economist Eugênio Gudin disagreed, favouring Brazil’s natural strengths in agriculture and commodity exports.

Their debate reflected different views about how Brazil should develop its economy.

Simonsen was elected to Brazil’s Academy of Letters in 1945 and later became a senator for São Paulo.

He died suddenly at age 59 while giving a speech at the academy.