Between the 1st and 5th of August, Franchising Brasil — the result of a partnership between the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (ApexBrasil) and the Brazilian Franchising Association (ABF) — supported yet another trade mission, this time to two new Latin American markets: Paraguay and Bolivia. The initiative was organized by the ApexBrasil office in South America and resulted in the forecast of more than USD 1,030,000.00 in business for the next 12 months.

The action took place first in the Paraguayan capital, Asunción. Then the second part of the trip took place in Bolivia, in the city of Santa Cruz de la Sierra. A delegation made up of representatives of seven Brazilian brands participated in the mission: Arranjos Express; Bioflora; Chiquinho Ice Cream; Espaçolaser; Reino Rural; Eyebrow Design; and Zé Chopp.

The initiative included several workshops, technical visits and business rounds with the aim of increasing Brazil’s commercial presence in South America. In addition to competitive advantages such as geographic proximity, simplified tax system and less competition in relation to Brazil, there are many opportunities in both countries. Currently, there are 23 Brazilian brands operating 43 units in the Bolivian market and 34 brands with 111 operations in Paraguay.

Bruno Amado, Executive Manager of Franchising Brasil, couldn’t be happier with the results of the commercial trip. “The mission was a great success! Even greater than the success we initially planned. We are surprised by the huge amount of opportunities these countries can provide for Brazilian brands. Both Paraguay and Bolivia are great markets to explore and offer several business possibilities”, he quoted with enthusiasm.

Asser Cardoso, representative of Chiquinho Ice Cream, said the mission was extremely positive for the brand: “For us it was of great importance and a surprise all the contact opportunities with partner companies and the paths we managed to open, strengthening ties for future investments in these countries”, he concludes.

About Franchising Brasil

Franchising Brasil is a joint project of the Brazilian Franchising Association (ABF) and the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (ApexBrasil), which aims to support the internationalization strategy of Brazilian franchise networks and their international trade promotion. The initiative was conceived to promote this recognized business model in the main international markets.