Lula says Brazilians spend heavily on dogs, contrasts with China

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva said Thursday that Brazilians spend considerable sums on dogs, drawing a contrast with China during remarks made in a lighthearted tone at an automobile factory in Anápolis, Goiás.

The comment came during a visit to a Caoa factory where production involves a partnership between Brazilian and Chinese companies. Chinese officials were present at the event. Lula was discussing family debt and factors he views as obstacles to growing his popularity in an election year.

"In China there should not be this problem, but here in Brazil we really like dogs," Lula said, addressing Zhu Huarong, chairman of the board of Changan Auto. The audience laughed at the remark.

Lula cited specific pet-related expenses as examples of spending that contributes to family indebtedness. He mentioned veterinary clinic costs, dental care for pets, and grooming services such as baths. The president characterized these expenses as part of a broader pattern of consumption that strains household budgets.

In his remarks, Lula addressed the accumulation of small expenditures across various categories. He referenced purchases of clothing through the internet and other items, noting that the sum of these smaller costs compromises salaries. He described this increase in spending as a custom of current times.

The president also requested measures from the finance minister to provide relief for family debts without preventing the acquisition of goods. His comments on pet spending formed part of a wider discussion on household financial pressures affecting Brazilian families.

Dogs are consumed as food in some regions of China, though the practice is increasingly rejected in the country.