Brazil is the largest economy in Latin America and one of the world's most important trade markets. In 2024, Brazil's total import and export volume reached $584.3 billion, with $318 billion in exports and $266.3 billion in imports.

Simply put, Brazil primarily sells agricultural and resource-based products to the world—such as soybeans, iron ore, and petroleum—while importing industrial and high-tech products, including automobiles, machinery, and electronics.

For global businesses, Brazil presents a large market with high demand, but also intense competition. Today, let's explore how to seize business opportunities in the Brazilian market.

I. Brazil's Trade Landscape: Selling Resources, Buying Technology

1. What Does Brazil Export?

Brazil is a major global supplier of raw materials. In 2024, its key exports included:

(1) Soybeans (21% of total exports): The world's largest soybean exporter, with key buyers including China, the EU, and Southeast Asia.

(2) Iron ore (18%): Mainly exported to China, Japan, and South Korea.

(3) Petroleum (15%): Offshore oilfield development has boosted exports, with major buyers in the U.S., India, and Europe.

(4) Meat (12% – beef and poultry): The Middle East and China are the largest buyers.

2. What Does Brazil Import?

With a relatively weak industrial base, Brazil relies heavily on imported industrial goods:

(1) Machinery & equipment (27% of imports): Includes machine tools, motors, and construction equipment, mainly imported from China, Germany, and the U.S.

(2) Electronics & communication equipment (19%): Includes chips, mobile phones, and telecom infrastructure, with China and South Korea as major suppliers.

(3) Chemicals (14%): Fertilizers and pharmaceutical raw materials, largely sourced from the U.S. and India.

(4) Automobiles & parts (11%): Primarily imported from China, Mexico, and Argentina.

Key Takeaway: Brazil earns money by exporting resources but needs to import industrial and tech products, creating significant opportunities for global businesses.

II. Three Key Business Opportunities in Brazil

According to Brazil's National Confederation of Industry (CNI), the following sectors hold the most potential:

1. Renewable Energy & Environmental Equipment

Brazil plans to increase its renewable energy share to 45% by 2030, driving demand for solar panels, wind power equipment, and waste treatment technologies.

2. Smart Hardware & Digital Solutions

With 5G coverage expanding rapidly, demand is surging for smartphones, IoT devices, and data center hardware.

3. Cost-Effective Industrial Products

Brazil's high manufacturing costs make Chinese-made machine tools, hardware tools, and auto parts highly competitive.

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III. Four Practical Ways to Develop Business in Brazil

1. Attend Industry Trade Shows – Meet Real Buyers

Face-to-face meetings are crucial for Brazilian business culture. Key trade shows include:

(1) Agrishow (Agricultural Exhibition): One of the world's largest agricultural expos, ideal for agriculture machinery and fertilizer businesses.

(2) FIEE (Industrial Exhibition): A top industrial fair in Latin America, essential for machinery and electronics companies.

(3) APAS (Retail Expo): A must-attend event for those selling consumer goods, gathering supermarket and retail chain buyers.

2. Use the Right Social Media – WhatsApp is More Effective Than Email

(1) WhatsApp: 90% of Brazilian businesses use WhatsApp for business deals. Make sure to prepare Portuguese product brochures and send them via WhatsApp.

(2) LinkedIn: Search for "Comprador (Buyer) + Industry Keyword" to directly connect with procurement managers.

(3) TikTok: Young Brazilians love short videos—factory showcase videos can generate unexpected leads.

3. Find a Local "Business Assistant"

Relationships matter in Brazilian business. You can reach out to the São Paulo Chamber of Commerce (ACSP) for reputable local agents.

If budget is tight, hiring a Portuguese-speaking part-time business assistant can help handle inquiries and logistics.

4. Use Trade Data for Precision Targeting

With Tendata trade data, you can directly find Brazilian buyers, understand their needs and procurement habits, and skip intermediaries to reach decision-makers.

Why Use Tendata's Brazil Trade Data?

1. Instantly Search for Brazilian Buyers

Simply enter a product keyword or HS code to find companies that have made recent trade transactions—ensuring accurate and relevant leads.

>>Find More Brazilian Customers<<

2. Access Comprehensive Trade Information

Each transaction record includes:

(1) Buyer details (company name, address, executive contacts).

(2) Product details (description, specifications, quantity, price).

(3) Financial details (total cost, supplier information).

3. Predict Buyer Purchasing Cycles

Historical data helps predict when Brazilian buyers place orders (e.g., many set budgets between March and May), allowing for timely outreach.

For buyers that frequently purchase a particular product, proactively recommend new offerings.

· What Data Fields Does Tendata's Brazil Trade Database Include?

Tendata covers 62 data fields, including company information, product details, logistics data, pricing, and volume records.

Check out the data samples below: >> Free trial of Tendata brazil trade data

Conclusion

By usingTendata trade data alongside trade shows, social media, and local partnerships, even small businesses can find opportunities in Brazil.

With Brazil's import demand expected to grow by 6% in 2024, now is the perfect time to enter the market!