Know the ABCs of Exporting

Multi-State Trade Mission Planned for April 2008

Argentina, Brazil, and Chile account for 57 percent of U.S. exports to South America and these three markets have experienced double-digit growth in purchases from the United States over recent years. In the first two quarters of 2007, U.S. exports increased by 17 percent to Argentina, 31 percent to Brazil, and 18 percent to Chile. If you are interested in expanding your business opportunities in these important markets, consider joining a multi-state trade mission organized by the Council of Great Lakes Governors and the Wisconsin Department of Commerce in April 2008.

Brazil's export-led economy continues to grow due to strong global demand for commodities. Inflation is under control and interest rates have come down, assisting in the continued growth of consumption and investment. Thanks to a steady appreciation of the Brazilian real, imports are also expanding at a fast pace, up 26 percent in the first two quarters of the year.

Chile experienced unexpectedly strong growth in the first quarter of 2007, and the most recent updates regarding consumer demand and industrial production demonstrate continued economic expansion.

Argentina, while having demonstrated an impressive recovery from its economic crisis of 2001/2002, continues to experience a challenging inflation rate. However, the economy is still expected to grow 7 percent in 2007. One example of industrial expansion is the Argentine automotive industry, which saw exports grow by over 30 percent in the first seven months of the year.

For more information about the trade mission or South American markets in general, contact our Latin American specialist, Ms. Susan Dragotta, at susan.dragotta@wisconsin.gov, or 262-691-5147.

-- Susan Dragotta