This industry note analyses the sugar and ethanol industry in Brazil and in the world. The note analyses the birth and expansion of this industry between 1975 and 2011. It also looks at the impact of biofuels in the oil and the car industry and the role of public research institutions like Embrapa in Brazil in fostering innovation and increase in productivity in the agricultural sector in Brazil.

This case analyses the internationalization process of Cosan, the Brazilian leader in the ethanol industry. It analyses Cosan's international development and its approach to global growth through joint ventures and acquisitions.