English and French are popular second languages in big and touristical cities. Because of the similarity between Portuguese and Spanish, a Spanish- speaker will be understood by most Brazilians. Protestant sects, however, are growing rapidly. Many people in the northeast practice Afro-Brazilian religions that combine tribal beliefs with those of Catholicism. Although Brazilians consider themselves quite religious, most attend church only on special occasions.
Agriculture continues to play an important role in Brazil's economy.
Brazil is the world's second largest producer of coffee and sugarcane, the third largest producer of corn, soybeans, and livestock, and ranks fourth in forestry products. Other important crops include rice, beans, cotton, manioc, oranges, cocoa, and tobacco. Much of Brazil's sugarcane goes into the production of alcohol, which is used as fuel. Brazil leads the world in fuel-alcohol production. The industrial sector has grown greatly in recent years.