Foreign investment in Brazil - Santandertrade.com (2024)

FDI in Figures

Foreign direct investment into Brazil boomed between 2009-2011, but had been slowing down ever since. However, according to the World Investment Report 2022 published by UNCTAD, FDI inflows increased to USD 50.3 billion in 2021. Still, FDI inflows to the country have yet to return to pre-pandemic levels. Although Brazil saw a significant decrease in FDI during the pandemic, there were still some significant investments made in the country even amid the COVID-19 crisis. In January 2021, U.S-based New Fortress Energy announced that it would buy Hygo Energy Transition and Golar LNG, in a combined USD 5 billion deal that marks the group's entry into the Brazilian natural gas sector and making the company the leading gas-to-power company in Brazil. Additionally, with Brazil opening its natural gas industry to private investors, other major oil companies, including BP PLC and EIG Global Partners, are also looking into multibillion-dollar investments in the country. On the other hand, Ford Motor Co. also announced in January 2021, that it would close all three plants in Brazil and stop producing automobiles in the country, where it had been operating since 1919, as the pandemic amplified persistent industry idle capacity and slowed sales, resulting in significant losses. The stock of FDI has remained stable and reached USD 592 billion at the end of 2021. That same year, the number of Greenfield Investments in the country decreased to 182. However, the value of those investments increased from USD 17.2 million in 2020 to 23.2 billion in 2022. Brazil is the 11th largest recipient of FDI in the world in terms of inflows (6th the previous year), and the largest in Latin America and the Caribbean. The main investing countries in Brazil are the Netherlands, the United States, France, Spain, and Canada. Investments are mainly oriented towards commerce, non-metallic mineral products, chemical products, financial and auxiliary services, and motor vehicles.

According to the Economist Business Environment, Brazil ranks 51 out of the 82 countries reviewed for their investment climate. The country is an attractive market for international investors due to several factors: a domestic market of over 210 million inhabitants, availability of easily exploitable raw materials, a diversified economy that is less vulnerable to international crises, and a strategic geographic position that allows easy access to other South American countries. However, investment in Brazil remains risky because of some negative factors including cumbersome and complex taxation, bureaucratic delays and heavy and rigid labour legislation.As part of the country’s ongoing effort to strengthen its business environment, Brazil introduced electronic certificates of origin which reduced the time required for import documentary compliance, facilitating and simplifying the whole process. The country also made several infrastructure concessions which have helped foster investment. The current president has plans for further improving the business environment in the country, implementing reforms such as decreasing the number of days needed to create a company in Brazil from 79.5 days down to the regional average of 30 days. Easing of regulation in some sectors and potential amendments to the tax system should help as well.

Foreign Direct Investment201920202021
FDI Inward Flow (million USD)65,38628,31850,367
FDI Stock (million USD)705,031595,285592,761
Number of Greenfield Investments*355222184
Value of Greenfield Investments (million USD)30,81417,21223,250

Source: UNCTAD, Latest available data.

Note: * Greenfield Investments are a form of Foreign Direct Investment where a parent company starts a new venture in a foreign country by constructing new operational facilities from the ground up.

FDI INFLOWS BY COUNTRY AND INDUSTRY

Main Investing Countries2019, in %
Netherlands23.2
United States15.6
France12.8
Spain9.5
Canada4.4
Austria3.9
Japan3.6
Luxembourg3.5
Main Invested Sectors2019, in %
Commerce, except vehicles20.0
Non-metallic mineral products13.0
Chemical products6.4
Financial and auxiliary services6.1
Motor vehicles, trailers, semi-trailers and related parts5.0
Telecommunications4.0
Information technology services3.8
Oil and gas extraction3.8

Source:Brazil's Central Bank- Latest available data.

Form of Company Preferred By Foreign Investors
Very large companies, mergers and international acquisitions. The sociedades anonimas are the legal form of company preferred by foreigners.
Form of Establishment Preferred By Foreign Investors
Joint-ventures
Main Foreign Companies
Renault, Peugeot, Carrefour, Casino, Mc Donalds, Zara, General Motors.
Sources of Statistics
Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics

© eexpand, All Rights Reserved.
Latest Update: June 2023

Foreign investment in Brazil - Santandertrade.com (2024)

FAQs

What is the best answer to the question what is foreign direct investment by a corporation? ›

Foreign direct investment (FDI) is an ownership stake in a foreign company or project made by an investor, company, or government from another country.

Is Brazil open to foreign investment? ›

Foreign investors in Brazil receive the same legal treatment as local investors in most economic sectors; however, there are foreign investment restrictions in the health, mass media, telecommunications, aerospace, rural property, and maritime sectors.

What is the FDI in Brazil 2023? ›

Brazil Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) registered a growth equal to 4.3 % of the country's Nominal GDP in Mar 2023, compared with a growth equal to 4.2 % in the previous quarter. See the table below for more data.

Is Brazil a good place to invest now? ›

With its warm climate, strong infrastructure and affordable prices, it is a great place to live and retire. Likewise, many consider Brazil an ideal spot for a second home or investment property.

What is the difference between foreign trade and foreign investment? ›

Foreign trade refers to the buying and selling of goods and services between countries. Foreign investment refers to the purchase of assets, such as stocks and real estate, in a foreign country by an individual or business.

What's the difference between foreign investment and foreign direct investment? ›

FDI refers to the investment made by foreign investors to obtain a substantial interest in an enterprise located in a different country. FPI refers to investing in the financial assets of a foreign country, such as stocks or bonds available on an exchange.

Why not to invest in Brazil? ›

However, investment in Brazil remains risky because of some negative factors including cumbersome and complex taxation, bureaucratic delays and heavy and rigid labour legislation.

Can US citizens own land in Brazil? ›

Can foreigners buy real estate in Brazil? Yes, foreign citizens can buy real estate in Brazil, and they actually buy a LOT. Currency exchange favorable to strong currencies such as the dollar and the euro is just one of the many reasons why buying properties in Brazil is an opportunity for foreign citizens.

Can a US citizen own a business in Brazil? ›

Generally, there are two options in starting a business in Brazil as a foreigner. You may enter Brazil directly (subsidiary or branch) or through third parties. The most common entity chosen would be the limited liability company (LLC).

What is the level of foreign investment in Brazil? ›

Brazil was the world's sixth-largest destination for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in 2019, with inflows of $72 billion, according to UNCTAD.

What is the recent FDI in Brazil? ›

Record levels of FDI in Brazil

Of the total, 40% (US$37 billion) came from new capital in the economy, up from US$30 billion in 2021. In addition, reinvested profit totalled US$33 billion, almost double the amount in 2021 and inter-company loans reached US$21 billion.

Who has the biggest FDI in Brazil? ›

According to Brazil's Central Bank, in 2019, the main sources of foreign direct investment in Brazil were the Netherlands (23.2%), the United States (15.6%), France (12.8%) and Spain (9.5%).

What is the best investment in Brazil? ›

Doing business in Brazil: Top 5 sectors ripe for investment in 2023
  1. Oil and gas. Brazil is a major player in the oil & gas sector and has the second largest proven oil reserves in the Americas. ...
  2. Agribusiness. ...
  3. Automotive manufacturing. ...
  4. Textiles/clothing production. ...
  5. Renewable energy.
Oct 7, 2022

Is Brazil a good country to retire? ›

Low cost of living,great climate,fun loving culture and cheap properties are just a few reasons! Brazil offers retirees a unique combination of affordability, warm climate, and vibrant culture.

What business is booming in Brazil? ›

Fintech, agrotech, marketplaces or digital commerce are some of the sectors that are growing the most in the Brazilian ecosystem.

Is foreign trade good or bad? ›

It provides consumers with a variety of options and increases competition so that businesses must produce cost-efficient and high-quality goods, benefiting these consumers. Nations also benefit through international trade, focusing on producing the goods they have a comparative advantage in.

What are the three types of international trade? ›

There are three different types of foreign trade, which are as follows:
  • Import trade: It is the purchase of goods and services by one country from another country. ...
  • Export trade: It is the selling of goods and services to another country. ...
  • Entrepot trade: This process is also called re-export.

What is an example of a direct foreign investment? ›

An example would be McDonald's investing in an Asian country to increase the number of stores in the region. Here, a business enters a foreign economy to strengthen a part of its supply chain without changing its business in any way.

What are the 2 types of foreign investment and what is the difference between them? ›

A country's FDI can be both inward and outward. As the terms would suggest, inward FDI refers to investments coming into the country and outward FDI are investments made by companies from that country into foreign companies in other countries.

What does foreign direct investment include? ›

Broadly, foreign direct investment includes "mergers and acquisitions, building new facilities, reinvesting profits earned from overseas operations, and intra company loans".

How to invest your money in Brazil? ›

The easiest way to invest in the whole Brazilian stock market is to invest in a broad market index. This can be done at low cost by using ETFs. On the Brazilian stock market you'll find 2 indices which are tracked by ETFs. Alternatively, you may consider investing in the Latin American stock market.

What are the problems with Brazil trading? ›

Complicated Tax System: Without a free trade agreement, Brazil imposes high taxes and tariffs on imported goods and services coming from the U.S. and other markets. Brazil applies federal and state taxes and charges to imports that can effectively double the cost of imported products in Brazil.

Is Brazil a good country to trade with? ›

With the largest consumer market and GDP in South America, Brazil continues to be an excellent market for experienced U.S. exporters seeking to tap into its diversified economy.

How long can I stay in Brazil as a US citizen? ›

Travelers can enter in Brazil for a stay of up to 90 days, which can be extended for an additional 90 days. Please keep in mind that even if staying less than 90 days, you must: Stay less than 180 days within a 12-month period. Hold a passport valid at least six months on entry with one blank visa page.

How long can a US citizen live in Brazil? ›

As for Brazil visa duration, you can get a visa that allows you to stay in the country for 90 days. The citizens of countries that are visa exempt can remain in Brazil without a visa for 90 days, but if they need to stay for longer, they are also required to apply for a visa.

Can US citizens retire in Brazil? ›

Retire in Brazil – Visas and Residence Permit

Americans can retire to Brazil on a retiree visa. To obtain a retirement visa, you must be over age 60 and have a pension that earns at least $2,000 per month. To apply for the retirement visa, you must apply at least four to eight weeks before arriving in Brazil.

Can I use my US license in Brazil? ›

Driver's license (CNH – Carteira de Habilitação, Carteira de Motorista) A valid foreign driver's license can be used for up to six months, but must be accompanied by an official translation into Portuguese. If you are to stay in Brazil for more than 6 months, you have to apply for a Brazilian driver's license.

Can a US citizen work remotely in Brazil? ›

To be eligible for the Brazil remote worker visa, you must prove that your income comes from sources outside of Brazil through an employment or service contract or other documents proving a link with an employer.

Does the US have an income tax treaty with Brazil? ›

No. There is currently no US-Brazil tax treaty. This leaves Americans living in Brazil at risk of double taxation on their income. Fortunately, the IRS tax credits listed above can help reduce the risk of double taxation for most US expats.

What is the foreign income tax in Brazil? ›

For Brazilian residents, worldwide income is subject to income tax. The rates are progressive and top out at a rate of 27.5%. For non-residents, only Brazilian income is taxed, and the filing of a tax return is not required until they become residents. In Brazil, there are not state or regional income taxes.

How much is an investor visa in Brazil? ›

Program at a glance
Program TypeGolden Visa Program
Time to citizenship3 or 4 years
Time to permanent residencyImmediately upon approval
Minimum investmentBRL 150,000 (US$28,000)
Physical presence requirement30 days per year (under real estate option only, otherwise 183 days)
3 more rows

What is the current interest rate in Brazil? ›

Deposit Interest Rate in other countries
CountryUpdatedActual
BrazilMay/238.32 %
Chile20228.99 %
Paraguay20213.42 %
ArgentinaJun/2391.88 %
19 more rows

What laws govern foreign direct investment in Brazil? ›

Besides being subject to regulatory restrictions, FDI must also follow public bidding legislation, when applicable. In 2021, Brazil enacted a new Public Procurement and Contracts Law (Law No. 14,133/2021), allowing for more flexible international bidding.

What is Brazil's foreign policy? ›

Brazil's international relations are based on article 4 of the Federal Constitution, which establishes non-intervention, self-determination, international cooperation and the peaceful settlement of conflicts as the guiding principles of Brazil's relationship with other countries and multilateral organizations.

What are the top 5 FDI? ›

Top investor countries in India in FY 2023. In FY 2023, Singapore accounted for maximum inward FDI in India at US$17.20 billion, followed by Mauritius (US$6.13 billion), the US (US$6.04 billion), UAE (US$3.35 billion), and the Netherlands (US$2.49 billion).

Who receives the most foreign direct investment? ›

The United States is the top destination of inward foreign direct investment. Source: IMF Data, Coordinated Direct Investment Survey.

What is the economic status of Brazil? ›

The economy is a middle income developing mixed economy. In 2022, according to International Monetary Fund (IMF), Brazil has the 10th largest gross domestic product (GDP) in the world and has the 8th largest purchasing power parity in the world. $2.08 trillion (nominal; 2023 est.) $4.020 trillion (PPP; 2023 est.)

What is the largest financial institution in Brazil? ›

Itaú Unibanco was formed through the merger of Banco Itaú and Unibanco in 2008. It is the largest banking institution in Brazil, as well as the largest in Latin America, and the seventy-first largest bank in the world. The bank is listed at the B3 in São Paulo and in NYSE in New York. Itaú Unibanco S.A.

Where do millionaires live in Brazil? ›

São Paulo is a city of standouts, where the native mega-wealthy class has the limelight versus a milieu of absolute poverty. With no less than 1500 bank branches & 70 extravagant shopping centers, the prosperous side of this metropolis lives to spend.

What mainly makes Brazil a lot of money? ›

As the tenth largest economy in the world, it is among the global giants of mining, agriculture and manufacturing. Brazil plays an important role in the international mining industry.

What is the #1 safest investment? ›

What are the safest types of investments? U.S. Treasury securities, money market mutual funds and high-yield savings accounts are considered by most experts to be the safest types of investments available.

Where is the safest place to retire in Brazil? ›

The city of João Pessoa is a favored retirement destination for Brazilians from São Paulo, Rio and other cities in the northeast. Many professionals and former civil servants choose the comfort and safety of João Pessoa over their own hometowns.

Can I collect Social Security and live in Brazil? ›

International Programs

If you are a U.S. citizen, you may receive your Social Security payments outside the U.S. as long as you are eligible for them.

Can I live in Brazil as an American? ›

If you want to reside in Brazil legally, you must apply for and obtain a visa before traveling to the country, or you will be denied entry by Brazilian authorities. Depending on the reason why you want to move to Brazil, you need to choose a type of VITEM visa and submit the application for that type of visa.

Why invest in Brazil in 2023? ›

With a stable political and economic outlook, along with a devalued currency and investors moving away from other emerging markets, Brazil is a prime target for investments in 2023.

Where is the best place for business in Brazil? ›

São Paulo is in 1st place among the best Brazilian cities for entrepreneurship in the ranking elaborated by ENAP and Endeavour. According to new research by the National School of Public Administration (ENAP) and Endeavor, the best cities for entrepreneurship in Brazil are São Paulo, Florianópolis, and Curitiba.

What does Brazil sell the most? ›

Yearly Trade

The most recent exports are led by Iron Ore ($46.2B), Soybeans ($39B), Crude Petroleum ($30.7B), Raw Sugar ($10B), and Poultry Meat ($7.66B). The most common destination for the exports of Brazil are China ($88.3B), United States ($30.2B), Argentina ($12B), Netherlands ($9.29B), and Chile ($7.14B).

What is the best example of foreign direct investment? ›

An example would be McDonald's investing in an Asian country to increase the number of stores in the region. Here, a business enters a foreign economy to strengthen a part of its supply chain without changing its business in any way.

What is foreign direct investment? ›

Foreign direct investment (FDI) is a category of cross-border investment in which an investor resident in one economy establishes a lasting interest in and a significant degree of influence over an enterprise resident in another economy.

What is the best definition for foreign direct investment quizlet? ›

What is the best definition for foreign direct investment? A foreign direct investment is the purchase of more than ten percent of a firm or the creation of a new enterprise in another country.

What is a foreign direct investment quizlet? ›

Foreign direct investment is the purchase of physical assets or a significant amount of the ownership of a company in another country to gain a measure of management control.

What can be included in foreign direct investment? ›

Broadly, foreign direct investment includes "mergers and acquisitions, building new facilities, reinvesting profits earned from overseas operations, and intra company loans".

What is the most common form of direct foreign investment? ›

Horizontal direct investment is perhaps the most common form of direct investment. For horizontal investments, a business already existing in one country establishes the same business operations in a foreign country. A fast-food franchise based in the United States might open restaurant locations in China.

What country has the most direct foreign investment? ›

United States Is World's Top Destination for Foreign Direct Investment. The United States recorded the largest increase of inward foreign direct investment of all economies in 2021.

What is an example of a foreign investment? ›

Foreign investment occurs when foreign companies invest in domestic companies and seek active participation in their day-to-day operations and key strategic expansion. For example, if an American company invests in an Indian company, it will be a foreign investment.

What are the three types of foreign direct investment? ›

Here are the different types of foreign investments
  • Vertical FDI.
  • Conglomerate FDI.
  • Platform FDI.

What are the 4 types of FDI? ›

The different types of FDIs are horizontal FDI, vertical FDI, conglomerate FDI and platform FDI.

What is foreign investment also called? ›

This type of investment is also sometimes referred to as a foreign portfolio investment (FPI). Indirect investments include not only equity instruments such as stocks, but also debt instruments such as bonds.

How does foreign direct investment benefit the recipient country? ›

FDI can also promote competition in the domestic input market. Recipients of FDI often gain employee training in the course of operating the new businesses, which contributes to human capital development in the host country. Profits generated by FDI contribute to corporate tax revenues in the host country.

What are the two main types of FDI? ›

FDI can take two different forms: Greenfield or mergers and acquisitions (M&As).
  • greenfield investment involves the creation of a new company or establishment of facilities abroad. ...
  • mergers and acquisitions amounts to transferring the ownership of existing assets to an owner abroad.

What are the two main drivers of FDI flows? ›

Accordingly, FDI is driven by four main factors: (i) markets; (ii) assets; (iii) natural resources; and (iv) efficiency seeking.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Stevie Stamm

Last Updated:

Views: 6388

Rating: 5 / 5 (60 voted)

Reviews: 91% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Stevie Stamm

Birthday: 1996-06-22

Address: Apt. 419 4200 Sipes Estate, East Delmerview, WY 05617

Phone: +342332224300

Job: Future Advertising Analyst

Hobby: Leather crafting, Puzzles, Leather crafting, scrapbook, Urban exploration, Cabaret, Skateboarding

Introduction: My name is Stevie Stamm, I am a colorful, sparkling, splendid, vast, open, hilarious, tender person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.