Best business city in Latin America: Sao Paulo

Latin Trade, Feb, 2004

Despite its massive size and its infamous traffic, LATIN TRADE readers say San Paulo reigns when it comes to doing business. For the second year in a row, Brazil's largest metropolis nabbed the title--despite formidable competition from rival Mexico City. Respondents to the LATIN TRADE poll gave multiple reasons for the choice, repeatedly citing its dynamic business landscape and its excellent infrastructure.

"It's the business center for Latin America and it's vital for Mereosur negotiations:' wrote one reader. The range and number of hotels and restaurants, the transportation systems and the cutting-edge technology in the city were also cited, as was Silo Paulo's role not only as Brazil's financial capital, but also as the financial heart of the whole region. Brazil's huge market potential, economic growth and its position as the Latin American headquarters for numerous multinationals were other factors. Nearly 60% of Brazil's business takes place in Sao Paulo, the country's industrial capital, and its 18 million residents represent a powerful consumer base.

Our readers described paulinos, as residents of the city are known, as professional, forward thinking, serious and efficient at business. Survey respondents also pointed out the hospitality of Sao Paulo residents, as well as the city's lively cultural scene. "[Sao Paulo] offers everything, like New York or Chicago, but with a Brazilian flavor," wrote a reader.