Paths and detours of the São Paulo Macrometropolis: economic dynamics, external determinants and perspectives

Abstract The present article discusses relevant economic aspects of the urban agglomerate that constitutes the so-called Macrometrópole Paulista - MMP (São Paulo Macrometropolis). First, we identify the main dynamics associated with globalization and its manifestations in São Paulo. Then, we analyze the problematic route of Brazilian growth in the last decades emphasizing pressures on the national industry, which means we characterize the more general context where the MMP is inserted. Subsequently, we situate the MMP in the recent trajectory of the Brazilian economy and analyze its industrial performance and the consequent territorial impacts. Finally, the concluding remarks evaluate São Paulo’s economy in view of contemporary challenges, highlighting the national State’s role of implementing regional policies in order to stimulate a more balanced territorial development in the whole country.