Scottish companies are being urged to explore potential partnerships and business opportunities with Brazil - one of the world’s fastest growing economies.
During a fact-finding mission this week, Lena Wilson, chief executive of Scottish Enterprise (SE), will meet with Brazilian government officials, trade and industry leaders and representatives from the Brazilian Development Bank to discuss how to further strengthen trade relationships between the two countries.
The visit will enable SE and SDI to help equip Scottish companies with the right tools and expertise to trade more effectively with Brazil.
As well as exploring key possibilities within the biofuels industry, the visit aims to gain a better understanding of the political, cultural and economic issues in the country and explore how SE and SDI can support Brazilian companies in Scotland.
Brazil offers 'huge opportunities'
Lena Wilson said: “Brazil is one of the world’s most rapidly developing economies and with a GDP per head greater than either India or China - it offers huge opportunities for Scottish businesses.
“Trading overseas is a key way for companies to realise their ambitious growth plans and in doing so, generate long term sustainable economic growth and recovery for Scotland. This visit is all about establishing strong relationships with Brazil and creating the right paths for Scottish companies to successfully trade here.”
Brazil is also making significant progress in next generation biofuel technology such as the hydro processing of natural oils in refineries and the conversion of waste substances into ethanol.
Opportunities for Scottish companies
Apart from the biofuel industry the most possibilities for Scottish companies in Brazil include the oil and gas sector, automotive components, electronics, machinery, food and drink and chemicals.
Lena Wilson continued: “By tapping into lucrative new markets we can ensure our message is clear – Scotland is very much open for business and is ready to compete on an international level.”
Brazil – key facts
- Fifth-largest country in the world with a population of around 185 million people
- Along with the United States, Brazil is the world’s leading ethanol producer and largest exporter of ethanol fuel
- Greater GDP per head than either India or China
- Brazil is making significant progress in next generation biofuel technology
- In 2009, 41 million bottles of whisky were shipped to Brazil
We can help your company tap into new markets such as Brazil - find out how by using our export assessment tool