Brazil’s Federal Government, City of Belém deliver first completed infrastructure project for COP30

This Wednesday (December 18), the Brazilian Federal Government and the City of Belém delivered the revitalization work of Mercado São Brás, the first completed infrastructure project for COP30. With an investment of BRL 150 million, the renovation project represents a legacy of infrastructure and sustainable development that will benefit the local population.

The Extraordinary Secretary for COP30, Valter Correia, highlighted that the entire world is looking forward to this event, which will be a symbolic moment for the climate change agenda. Correia indicated that the investments will generate a legacy for the State of Pará and the Amazon region as a whole.

"Over 30 structural construction works are underway in Belém, conducted by the Federal Government, in partnership with the City of Belém and the State of Pará. These investments have a reason and significance. We are providing infrastructure to a wonderful city that will receive a great legacy", explained Valter Correia.

Built during the first golden period of rubber extraction in the Amazon (1879 to 1912), the Mercado São Brás marketplace received the investment to host creative economy initiatives, value traditional knowledge, and strengthen the Amazon identity in a global context. Itaipu Binacional contributed almost BRL 90 million to this project, while the City of Belém provided a counterpart of BRL 60 million.

COP30 Secretary Valter Correia, Belém Mayor Edmilson Rodrigues, and Itaipu Coordination Director Carlos Carboni inaugurated the revitalization work of Mercado São Brás - Image: SECOP / Office of the Chief of Staff

Over 30 structural construction works are underway in Belém, conducted by the Federal Government in partnership with the City of Belém and the State of Pará. These investments have a reason and significance. We are providing infrastructure to a wonderful city that will receive a great legacy”

VALTER CORREIA, Extraordinary Secretary for COP30

Investments in tradition and memory — Different from a mere renovation, urban requalification promotes sustainability, accessibility, social integration, environmental preservation, and sustainable development. "These spaces are modern while also reinforcing tradition and memory, which are key elements of our people's history," emphasized Belém Mayor Edmilson Rodrigues.

This delivery is part of the public construction package for COP30, conducted by the Federal Government in partnership with state and municipal governments and financed by Itaipu Binacional and Brazil’s Development Bank (BNDES). From the installation of renewable energy to urban mobility, investments involve the local community, promote capacity-building in sustainable practices, and generate job opportunities.

Preservation of Cultural Heritage and Sustainability — The preservation of cultural heritage is directly linked to the Sustainable Development Goals, which include goals to protect and safeguard cultural and natural heritage (SDG11). In this perspective, historical monuments are investments in the balance between the past, present, and future, promoting a development model that respects cultural heritage, protects the environment, and benefits local communities in a long-lasting manner.

The historic building, which blends elements of Art Nouveau and Neoclassical styles, continues to play a vital role in supplying the capital of Pará. The São Brás Market offers over 300 stalls and shops, selling food, herbs, meats, crafts, and clothing.

Signed by architect Aurélio Meira, the restoration project includes a convention center, panoramic restaurant, and terrace. In addition to being a commercial hub, the proposal is for this historic site to become a center for business, culture, and recreation.