Mr Leite has extensive experience in the chemical sector and will coordinate the company's growth in yarns, fibers and polymers.

He said the company was keen to continue to innovate and develop the country’s textiles sector. “At the same time, we are expanding the internationalization of our polymers and textile fibres businesses.”

Rhodia produces raw materials in the industrial complex of Paulínia and textile yarns and fibres in Santo André.

Its products include Amni, Emana and Rhodianyl and its latest innovation is the Amni Virus-Bac OFF polyamide textile yarn that eliminates bacteria on textile surfaces. The yarn has an antiviral agent within its polymeric matrix, and can be used in knitwear and fabrics for various applications, including sportswear and casualwear.