Browsing: Business Opportunities

Maher Idriss participated, last weekend, in a business roundtable promoted by the Brazilian Micro and Small Business Support Service (Sebrae) in Aracaju, capital of the northeastern state of Sergipe. The importer visited four factories, some plantations and talked to local concentrated orange juice producers. He has been purchasing Brazilian orange juice, but has also shown interest in purchasing juice made out of pineapple and passion fruit.

The International Fair for Products and Services for Swimming Pools, Theme Parks, and Leisure is the largest event in Latin America turned to the sector, and will take place between August 11 and 14 in São Paulo. Businessmen in the field forecast revenues of around US$ 700 million this year. For the time being, the focus is still on the domestic market, being export restricted to neighbouring countries in South America.

Producers and vendors of eyewear have created a seal of origin and safety to fight against forgery and invest in the quality of domestic produce. Another initiative to increase foreign trade is the creation of an eyeglass frame export consortium in 2005. Brand De Lauretis from the southeaster state of São Paulo has developed frames for glasses out of solid gold to be presented on the Arab market.

Angela Martins, director of ABC Brazil Bank, wrote a book on Islamic banking practices, geared by the Koran, and which take into account ethics and social responsibility. There is no interest, but profits are welcome. As these practices are growing, Angela believes Brazilians interested in doing business with Arabs should learn more about the system, which could result in business and investments.

The multi-sector event to take place in the Syrian capital will include a stand promoted by the Arab Brazilian Chamber of Commerce and by the Brazilian Foreign Office. Part of the stand will be occupied by Santo André city hall, which has reserved space for companies in varied areas, including technological incubators, auto parts makers, and plastic industries.