São Paulo – Seminar "Business opportunities in the Arab Countries", presented by the secretary general at the Arab Brazilian Chamber of Commerce, Michel Alaby, in Mato Grosso last week, expanded the interest of businessmen from the cities of Cuiabá and Sinop in knowing more about the potential of the Arab market. "From the moment the consumer potential of the Arabs is mentioned, greater interest is generated among businessmen," stated José Eduardo Pinto, president of the Lumber Union of the North of the State of Mato Grosso (Sindusmade).
According to him, the success of the talk was such that businessmen started considering registering for participation in the state’s trade delegation to China, which should include a two-day stop in Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates. "We will certainly have new registration," said the president, who believes that there is much space for companies in the sector in the Arab market.
In a talk with 70 people in Sinop, on Friday (13), Alaby stated that many questions were asked about the woodworking, building and food sectors. "I presented Tripoli International Fair (in Libya) and invited the companies to send catalogues and material," said the secretary general with regard to the multisectorial event to take place in early April.
The same presentation took place on Thursday (12) in the city of Cuiabá, the state capital, and some 60 small and medium businessmen participated, mainly in the wood and furniture sectors. "I believe it was a great success," said José Carlos Dorte, the superintendent of the Federation of Industries of the State of Mato Grosso (Fiemt).
According to him, exports from the state of Mato Grosso to the Arab countries have been growing much in recent years, but still represent little. From 2000 to 2008, sales rose from US$ 7.89 million to US$ 408.37 million.
Apart from business opportunities, Alaby also spoke about some factors that contributed to simplification of business between the Arabs and Brazilians, like the slower rhythm in decision taking by the Arabs, and about the importance of establishing friendship so as to close deals.
"Those present were surprised with the presentation. To us, this is all new. It is not common for someone from the Arab Brazilian Chamber to come here and talk," said the superintendent. According to him, starting to export is a question of opportunity and it is Fiemt’s target to show that to businessmen. "We want our businessmen to know about new markets," he added.
*Translated by Mark Ament
