Abstract
The rapid advancement of technology highlights the emerging rivalry between the United States and China, particularly in 5G employment. U.S. sanctions on Chinese 5G technologies put significant pressure on Brazil, which seeks to balance foreign influences while advancing its re-industrialization plan. This study uses an institutionalist approach to analyze government documents, corporate papers, and think tank communications from 2017 onwards, examining the political and economic contestations between the U.S. and China over 5G technology, and Brazil’s strategic responses to it. The study reveals that Brazil’s pragmatic foreign policy aims to mitigate the negative impacts of the U.S.-China rivalry, ensuring Brazil’s technological advancement through a dual approach that involves considering U.S. cybersecurity standards while attracting Chinese investments to enhance its digital infrastructure. This strategy illustrates Brazil’s pursuit of autonomy in a polarized international environment, securing its technological future amid great-power competition.