Q&A-The Brazilian-American Chamber of Commerce: Focus Brazil 2005 offers new ways for business to connect, says the Brazilian-American Chamber

South Florida CEO, March, 2005

The Brazilian-American Chamber of Commerce Inc. has promoted trade and investment between Brazil and the US since 1968. Now the chamber is joining other community stakeholders to present the best of Brazilian culture and business at Focus Brazil 2005.

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Regina Valente Little, director of the Brazilian-American Chamber of Commerce, sat down with us to discuss how Focus Brazil 2005 will foster new trade opportunities for businesses in both countries.

Q: Why did you decide to co-sponsor Focus Brazil 2005?

Valente Little: Focus Brazil merges culture and business, and that is a philosophy we believe in at the Brazilian-American Chamber of Commerce. We are always concerned about how to bring quality cultural events to the area so that we can make an impression of what Brazilian culture is all about.

Q: How will this cultural program help businesses make connections and improve their bottom lines?

Valente Little: It immerses culture with business and opens the door to business opportunities. This is not the typical day-to-day buying and selling atmosphere. There's no hard sell. Focus Brazil transcends trade barriers because it's a more relaxed atmosphere where people can really get to know each other and understand the similarities in culture. The trade and business naturally flows from that.

Q: How will different types of companies find value at Focus Brazil 2005?

Valente Little: Focus Brazil will attract what we call the "tier one" of businesses across various industries. Small entrepreneurs and large international companies will find value in the event.

Q: Why are trade relations between Brazil and Florida so important to both countries?

Valente Little: Brazil is Florida's largest trade partner. Florida is also one of Brazil's major trade partners. There is a large contingent of Brazilian businesses in South Florida. Trade generates wealth for a new age of Brazilian businesses in Florida.

Q: What are the similarities between Brazil and Florida that help develop and strengthen business relationships?

Valente Little: Brazilians and Americans have very similar work ethics. Like Americans, Brazilian entrepreneurs are conscientious, honest and thorough in trade relationships.

Q: What makes the business and cultural ties between Florida and Brazil so strong?

Valente Little: It's a natural flow that has to do with proximity, language and culture. Miami has a large, modern seaport and airport. South Florida has a strong Latin culture that makes for easier business connections.