Exports, Imports, and Tourism

Brazil is the the world's leading producer and exporter of coffee. In a 12 month period in 2007 Brazil generated 3.4 billions dollars from exporting coffee according to the Brazilian coffee council. Brazil is known for its agricultural exports such as soybeans, oranges, meat, raw cane, and refined sugar. Brazil is known for its coffee. Brazil's biggest trade partner for both imports and exports is the United States. Brazil imports items such as computer accessories, organic chemicals, and civilian aircraft parts. The country had an 5 millions visitors in 2008 and is the fourth largest tourist destination in the world. Rio de Janeiro is one of the most visited cities by international tourist for leisure trips. Carnaval is also a huge event that attracts many visitors.

Political, Legal, and Regulatory Environments

Brazilian politics are characterized by a fractiousness that mirrors the country's diverse socio-economic make up. Relations are rocky between executive and the legislature divisions and as well as the federal and state governments. Political progress is slow for Brazil. Brazil is a federal republic with 26 states and a federal district. The president holds office for 4 years, with the right to re-election for additional 4 years, and appoints his own cabinet. Nineteen political parties are represented in congress. It is very common for politicians to switch parties, the number of congressional seats for certain parties are changed regularly. The major political parties are:

• Workers' Party


• Democrats


• Brazilian Democratic Movement Party


• Brazilian Social Democratic Party


• Progressive Party


• Brazilian Labor Party


• Party of the Republic


• Brazilian Socialist Party


• Popular Socialist Party


• Democratic Labor Party


• Communist Party of Brazil

Brazil is organized as a federal republic and it's legal system is based on Roman civil code. A foreign company must obtain written permission to operate a branch in Brazil.