Brazilian exports to the Arab countries have reached $4.2 billion from January to April 2012, representing an increase by 3 percent in relation to the same period in 2011. Imports from Arab countries, in turn, have also registered an important increase during the period, by 37 percent in relation to the previous year, reaching $3.4 billion. According to the Arab-Brazilian Chamber of Commerce, the instabilities registered last year in some Arab countries have not affected the results. “Trade relations between Brazil and the Arab countries remained active throughout 2011 and has continued so in 2012,” said Michel Alaby, Director-General of the Arab Chamber. From the total of $4.2 billion in Brazilian exports during the period from January to April 2012, Saudi Arabia is the main destination, registering $953 million. Next are the United Arab Emirates ($812 million) and Egypt ($595 million). Among the exported products, the highlights were sugar, meats, ores, cereals and vegetable oils. Of Brazilian imports from the Arab countries, Algeria heads the list with $1.5 billion, followed by Saudi Arabia ($723 million) and Kuwait ($378 million). The main products imported were oil and oil products, fertilizers and plastics. During April, the chamber has identified commercial opportunities in the fields of construction and food products. In addition to the traditional products, Arab companies are looking for suppliers of flooring and tiling, powdered milk, guaran? and nuts, among others. To meet the demand and generate business, the Arab Chamber has been organizing roundtables and receiving missions.
