The Brazilian Agency for the Promotion of Exports and Investments, known as ApexBrasil, continues to play a pivotal role in opening international markets for Brazilian businesses. One of the agency's notable initiatives is the Jornada Exportadora program, which facilitates Brazilian companies' entry and growth in foreign markets. The first edition this year will be held from April 23 to 29, targeting Colombia and Peru, and focusing on the Personal Care, Perfumery, and Cosmetics (HPPC) sectors.
Through this program, ApexBrasil collaborates with the Brazilian Service of Support to Micro and Small Enterprises (Sebrae) to support small businesses aiming to export their products and services. According to Clarissa Furtado, ApexBrasil’s Competitiveness Manager, the program's aim is clear: “The Jornada Exportadora seeks to offer international business opportunities to companies just beginning their export journeys. By adding qualifications to the process, the program ensures entrepreneurs can confidently export to their chosen markets.”
The schedule for each Jornada Exportadora edition features intense agendas, including market immersion activities, technical visits, seminars with market specialists, and business rounds with qualified local buyers. These activities are instrumental for participating companies as they provide insights on their products’ positioning and the local buying habits each market demands.
For the upcoming Colombian and Peruvian mission, pregnant with opportunities, ApexBrasil and Sebrae are making provisions for selected businesses concerning travel and accommodation. This support enables entrepreneurs who fulfill specific criteria, such as having participated in the Export Qualification Program (PEIEX) or the Beautycare Project, to gain entry at reduced costs.
Statistics from the Brazilian Association of the Personal Care, Perfumery and Cosmetics Industry (ABIHPEC) reveal the burgeoning potential for Brazil's export market, with international trade valued at $1.74 billion, reflecting a substantial increase of 14.5% compared to the previous year. Brazil exported its personal care products to 176 different countries, with Argentina, Mexico, and Colombia being the top three destinations.
Registered business owners eager to participate must sign up by March 5. The Jornada Exportadora especially welcomes enterprises with women or people of color holding strategic leadership positions, aiming to promote diversity and inclusivity within Brazilian exports.
Apart from the Jornada Exportadora program, ApexBrasil has released the Trade and Investment Profile focusing on BRICS countries – Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, along with its new members: Egypt, UAE, Ethiopia, Indonesia, and Iran. This comprehensive study outlines over 1,600 business opportunities for Brazilian products within these markets, which combine to represent more than 26% of the global GDP and 48% of the world’s population.
Released on the eve of the upcoming BRICS summit scheduled for July, the research indicates total Brazilian exports to existing BRICS members reached $102.5 billion, with China absorbing 92% of this volume. The primary export items listed include agricultural commodities such as soybeans and crude petroleum.
Jorge Viana, President of ApexBrasil, emphasized the significance of the BRICS nations, noting: “Closer ties with these rapidly growing economies will undoubtedly yield greater opportunities for Brazilian exports and lessen trade barriers.” This expansive view aligns with ApexBrasil’s goal to diversify Brazil’s export portfolio.
On another front, integrating sustainability and innovation, the Brazilian recycling industry is making strides thanks to partnerships facilitated by ApexBrasil, such as the one with the Association of Brazilian Animal Recycling (ABRA). Recently, representatives from the National Agrarian Health Service of Honduras (SENASA) participated in the Lo Mejor de Brasil en Reciclaje de Subproductos de Origen Animal event, highlighting Brazil’s prowess and safety standards within the animal recycling sector. The initiative marks progress toward potentially breaking trade barriers as Honduras currently restricts Brazilian market access.
Viana commented, “This demonstrates our commitment to fostering international connections through sustainable practices.” The Brazilian recycling sector has been steadily refining its international outreach through workshops and trade shows organized with ApexBrasil’s support.
Firmly rooted within these initiatives is the Women and International Business program, launched to inspire and support women-led businesses. Since its inception, this initiative has engaged over 30 activities and involved 70 partners, witnessing significant growth and interest from female entrepreneurs wishing to expand offshore.
ApexBrasil’s focus on inclusivity has even been recognized globally, with the agency winning the WTPO Awards for its sustainable and inclusive trade practices. Such accolades underline the importance of equitable economic opportunities for all Brazilians, regardless of their background.
Brazilian businesses of all sizes are invited to engage with ApexBrasil and take Advantage of the resources available. With numerous tools for market insight, financial support, and trading opportunities, every Brazilian enterprise is empowered to thrive on the international stage. “We aim to build the largest support network for Brazilian startups alongside Sebrae, ensuring all entrepreneurs find their pathway to success,” stated Viana, encapsulating the agency's mission.
With Brazil's comprehensive approach to trade, the future looks bright for local businesses ready to venture beyond borders and tap intoblated opportunities across diverse markets.