This is not "economic exploitation". This is the sacking of public assets by a handful of individuals, for a quick buck (again for a few), with the support of a strongman leader of limited intelligence and no scruples whatsoever elected by voters who are not much better. I speak as a Brazilian.
This is what happens when you elect a right-wing demagogue that serves US business interests and tows the Washington line. So many warnings fell on deaf ears, there should be no surprises here.
WASHINGTON — The Trump administration will penalize legal immigrants who rely on public programs, such as food stamps and government-subsidized housing, as part of a sweeping new policy to slow legal immigration into the United States and reduce the number of immigrants who are granted permanent legal status. The move will have the greatest impact on poor immigrants who are living in the country legally and are receiving public benefits from the government, forcing them to make a choice between accepting financial help and living and working in the country legally. It will probably not affect immigrants who already have green cards. The United States wants immigrants who can support themselves, according to the rule, not those who “depend on public resources to meet their needs,” according to the new rule.