International expansion and exports to Brazil

Our office in Rio also monitors the markets in Chile, Argentina and other South American countries. In Chile, the aquaculture industry and tunnelling technology and infrastructure are particularly important.

Brazil as a market

Brazil is the world's largest offshore market, with more than 100 Norwegian companies established in the country. It is South America's largest country by both land area and population, and has the continent's largest economy.

Together with the Consulate General in Rio de Janeiro, we have produced a report on Norwegian companies' investments in Brazil. You can read the 2021 edition of the report 'Norwegian Investments in Brazil' in English or Portuguese.

The November Conference

The November Conference has been held in Rio de Janeiro since 2013. The conference brings together universities and businesses from Norway and Brazil. Over the past two years, it has focused on renewable energy, particularly solar and offshore wind. Our office in Brazil is the local Norwegian partner helping to organise the conference.

Business culture in Brazil

Business culture in Brazil is largely built on personal relationships. These are key to successful trade relations. Strong relationships will make it easier for you to navigate a complex tax system and manage indirect costs and challenges related to customs and transport.

Please note that foreign currency transactions must be reported to the Central Bank of Brazil.

Opportunities for Norwegian companies in Brazil

Aquaculture

In 2017, Brazil produced approximately 690,000 tonnes of farmed fish – an 8% increase from 2016 – generating revenue of around NOK 11.8 billion. If Brazil's aquaculture industry grows as expected, the country will need technology and services across the entire value chain, including expertise in genetics, fish health, fish feed and machinery. This presents an opportunity for Norwegian companies to establish a strong position.

Renewable energy

Brazil is investing in a range of renewable energy sources. The Brazilian wind power market offers significant potential for project developers and investors, as well as suppliers of high-tech tools and services that improve efficiency. Solar power accounts for just over 1% of installed capacity (2018) and is growing rapidly. Bioenergy is another important sector in Brazil. For example, its ethanol-based fuel model is among the most advanced in the world. In offshore wind, the Brazilian Senate has approved plans to hold auctions for offshore sites.

Oil and gas

The outlook for Brazil's oil and gas sector is highly positive. The end of Petrobras' mandatory operatorship in pre-salt areas has opened the door for companies such as Equinor and Shell to strengthen their positions in this market. Several other measures have been introduced to optimise recovery from petroleum reservoirs and enable oil companies of all sizes to identify suitable business opportunities. Brazil is also engaging with communities and stakeholders to develop a natural gas market. To prepare and support the supplier industry, our team can help you expand your networks and build the knowledge you need to enter the Brazilian market.

Chile

Our office in Brazil can introduce you to key networks and industries in Chile. We have also produced a report on aquaculture in Chile, which you can read here. Other key industries we work with in Chile include aquaculture and tunnelling technology.