In September, BNDES approved four credit transactions for three different companies in the rail sector, totaling almost half a billion Brazilian Reais for the revitalization of lines, maintenance of equipment, and purchases of new railcars and machinery. This measure is in line with the new governmental policies and directives for the promotion of the railway sector, which, since 2007, when the North Section of the North-South Railroad was subject to a sub-concession, has been suffering from a lack of consistent privatization projects.

The infrastructure financing sector in Brazil has undergone significant structural and strategic changes in the last two years. These changes were mainly focused on the strategic redefinition of the National Economic and Social Development Bank (BNDES), which has gradually withdrawn from its centralizing role in financing transactions to assume a profile more complementary to the capital market, with new financing conditions and the adoption of the Long-Term Rate (TLP), which replaced the Long-Term Interest Rate (TJLP).

The extension of paternity leave and maternity leave for cases of birth of twins has generated recurrent discussion, although the bill on the subject was already rejected in 2009.

Ordinance No. 1,287/2017, published in December by the Ministry of Labor, prohibits the granting of a "negative service fee" under the Worker's Food Program (PAT). This fee represents a discount granted by meal and food card operators as a way to become more competitive and attract customers. In practice, the purchasing company acquires a monthly credit to be distributed via cards to its employees, but disburses a smaller amount due to the discount granted.

On March 15th, 2017, the Federal Supreme Court (STF) judged Extraordinary Appeal No. 574.706/PR (with recognized general repercussion), in which it was established that the ICMS is not included in the tax base for contributions to PIS and Cofins.

Every labor relationship is based on mutual trust between the parties. Every day, new products are created, new production techniques are implemented, and new markets are pursued. Employees have access to information that, if disclosed, may jeopardize the earnings of their companies and their very existence.