English 
Spanish 
5 min read
5 comments
The state is launching an innovative US$250 million project to rehabilitate 800 km of highways, adopting the CREMA model. The initiative aims to improve road infrastructure, boost agribusiness, tourism and commerce, as well as promote sustainable development and attract private investment, positioning the state at the forefront of road management in Brazil.
Mato Grosso do Sul is at the center of a revolution that promises to transform Brazil's road infrastructure.
An ambitious project, with investments of US$ 250 million, promises not only to modernize the state's roads, but also to create a lasting impact on the regional and national economy.
What is at stake here is much more than the recovery of 800 kilometers of highways: it is the implementation of a management model that can serve as a reference for other regions of the country.
- Brazil is now the country with the highest taxes in the world after a controversial tax reform that divides economists, politicians and scares the population
- Brazil's GDP growth hits 2,8% in 2024, but World Bank warns of fiscal challenges due to pension spending and public debt
- Scientists develop bendable concrete with 11,9% more flexibility for 3D printing
- This is the new BIGGEST farm in Brazil, impressive for its surprising size, valued at 30 BILLION, has 970 km of roads and could house 10 countries together
With an innovative approach and strategic vision, Mato Grosso do Sul aligns itself with the best international practices in road infrastructure.
The focus is not just on repairing what already exists, but on ensuring that roads meet the demands of a future that requires efficiency, sustainability and competitiveness.
Innovative model: what is CREMA?
The state took a bold step by adopting the CREMA (Road Recovery and Maintenance Contract) model, in partnership with the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD).
Unlike the traditional system, which paid for specific services such as filling potholes, CREMA offers fixed remuneration to contracted companies.
This creates a direct incentive for works to be carried out to a high quality from the outset, reducing future costs and minimizing the need for frequent repairs.
The first highways to benefit from this approach are MS-377 and MS-240, located in the strategic regions of Nova Andradina and Naviraí.
These roads, crucial for the transportation of goods and the daily movement of people, will now have more efficient and long-term management.
In addition to these, other areas are in the process of transitioning to the new model, with the aim of expanding the benefits to a road network that currently totals around 13 thousand kilometers.
Economic and social impacts
The benefits of the project go far beyond the physical infrastructure.
With an economy strongly based on agribusiness, Mato Grosso do Sul depends on efficient highways to transport its agricultural production to national and international markets.
Well-maintained roads are essential to reduce logistics costs, increase the competitiveness of local products and attract new investments.
The tourism sector should also reap the benefits of this modernization. With destinations such as Bonito and the Pantanal, the state has enormous potential to attract visitors from all over the world.
Improved roads will make it easier to access these locations, making the experience safer and more enjoyable for tourists.
Regional trade, in turn, will be boosted by improved connectivity between cities.
Highways in good condition allow goods to circulate more quickly and efficiently, stimulating economic growth in various sectors.
The Secretary of Infrastructure and Logistics, Guilherme Alcântara, highlighted the importance of this transformation:
“The implementation of CREMA represents a fundamental change in the way we manage our roads. We are not only improving the quality of our roads, but also promoting sustainable development that will benefit the entire population.”
Sustainability and cost reduction
One of the main objectives of the new model is to ensure the financial and environmental sustainability of the state road system.
With an annual investment of around R$500 million, the expectation is that 25% of the current paved network will be maintained with greater efficiency. This represents a significant reduction in operating costs over time, freeing up resources for other priority areas.
The adoption of CREMA also reflects a commitment to sustainable practices. By prioritizing quality works, the model reduces waste of materials and energy, contributing to environmental preservation.
Challenges along the way
Despite the progress, the project faces challenges. Recently, the auction of the so-called “Rota da Celulose”, one of the largest highway concessions in Brazil, was postponed without a new date set.
This concession, which includes investments of R$9 billion in 870 km of highways, is essential for the flow of the state's industrial and agricultural production.
The postponement highlights the complexity of large-scale projects and the need for coordination between the public and private sectors to overcome obstacles.
Even so, the state government remains confident in the success of the initiative and its potential to attract new investors.
A vision for the future
With CREMA, Mato Grosso do Sul positions itself as an example of innovation and efficiency in public management.
The model not only improves road conditions, but also creates an environment conducive to economic and social development.
In the long term, highway modernization can serve as a catalyst for broader transformation, encompassing sectors such as education, health and public safety.
Connectivity guaranteed by quality roads has the potential to improve the lives of millions of people, promoting inclusion and reducing regional inequalities.
The Mato Grosso do Sul project represents a milestone in infrastructure management in Brazil
By adopting an innovative model and seeking strategic partnerships, the state demonstrates that it is possible to combine efficiency, sustainability and economic development.
Do you believe that initiatives like this can transform the reality of other Brazilian states? What would be the impact of a model like CREMA on a national level? Leave your opinion in the comments!
Great idea
Congratulations Governor Readel. This attitude shows competence in public management and concern for the development of our people. A good manager is to give of himself to his people, leaving the same old thing behind and going further. Accepting safe innovations! Congratulations to the Secretary of Infrastructure.