Petrobras outlines partnership program to take minority stakes in ethanol production; says will not acquire distressed assets outright

In Brazil, Petrobras announced that it was not seeking to acquire distressed ethanol companies but would establish partnerships where appropriate to support development of the national ethanol industry. According to Petrobras management, the state oil giant would offer a guaranteed ethanol contract over 10 years in return for a minority stake in a project. Local developers would hold the majority interest. Petrobras, which has set a goal of 500 Mgy in ethanol exports by 2013, said it will invest $2.5 billion in ethanol development through 2013, with another $800 million dedicated to biodiesel.

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