Brazil's construction sector offers attractive opportunities for investors from the Middle East and Gulf countries. According to a recent Business Monitor International Report, Brazil's construction sector is expected to be worth $85.48 billion by the end of the year, driven by projects related to upcoming major sporting events to be held in the country such as the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. These complement government plans to further expand infrastructure via its Growth Acceleration Program investment plan. Against this backdrop, the upcoming Brasil Trade 2010 to be held on May 9-11 at the Intercontinental Hotel in Dubai Festival City would showcase an array of investment potentials and business partnerships in store for regional investors and businessmen. Alessandro Teixeira, president of Apex-Brasil, organizer of Brasil Trade 2010, said “Brazil and the GCC are both known for their solid tourism and real estate sectors. This year is a particularly crucial period to explore mutual opportunities in these businesses, as the world aims for steady recovery from the economic downturn. Infrastructure development figures prominently in the growth agendas of Brazil and Gulf countries over the next few decades, so Brasil Trade Middle East 2010 offers an excellent opportunity for investors and businesses to position themselves for post-crisis construction trade growth.” The South American country's construction industry aims for 8.87 percent growth in 2010. Moreover, Brazil's stone, ceramic, non-ferrous metal and other construction products are highly popular in the Middle East, particularly in GCC countries. Overall, Brazil's real estate and construction trade with the Gulf was valued at $132.13 million in 2009, representing a 13.09 percent average annual growth since 2005. Over 30 Brazilian exporters from more than 100 leading Brazilian producers and manufacturers will outline investment and partnership prospects in construction and construction materials during Brasil Trade Middle East 2010. The event will also showcase opportunities in Brazilian furniture and decoration, food and beverages, and auto parts, among others. A hosted buyer's program will be organized for major importers from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Jordan, Syria and Lebanon.
