Juiz de Fora is the second most important industrial center in the state of
Minas Gerais, despite being the fourth largest in terms of population. It was
once the state's largest city, a position which was held up until the beginning
of the 20th century (it held the second position until the 1990s). There are
important steel mills and automotive factories (Mercedes-Benz being the most
famous) in the city, along with several textile factories.
The city is also an important trade center
with a considerable area of influence, being considered the capital of the Zona
da Mata
