In encouraging signs for Australian companies looking to enter the Brazilian market, the Rio de Janeiro city council has indicated it is very interested in attracting new investments and business ventures from Australia as it aims to position the city as a business friendly destination ahead of the 2016 Olympics.
A recently-formed body called the Investment Promotion Agency of Rio de Janeiro (API-Rio Business) is leading the push to improve the city´s image as a business destination and become the location of choice for companies entering the Brazilian and South American markets, with a particular focus on leveraging 2016 Olympic Games requirements.
Just this month two global businesses with strong ties to Australia have established a presence in Rio, with ARUP and Populous (formerly HOK Sport) opening small offices in the city.
Watch for further reports over the coming weeks featuring comments from API-Rio Business and Australian trade representatives on the new business-friendly direction for the city.