Alumni forum: Brazil is a land of the future, but not a land for beginners

On Wednesday 10 September 2014, the FELU organised the forum: Brazil after Brazil. Among other things, the participants discussed key questions regarding companies entering the Brazilian market, the main obstacles which can arise in the process, intercultural differences and aspects of the business culture, opportunities for Slovenian companies as well as possibilities of expert cooperation between the two countries. Past Alumni forums have looked at three countries of the BRICS group – Russia, India and China.

In her opening words, the Vice-dean of the FELU Prof. Tanja Mihalič PhD pointed out the importance of the FELU Alumni which has over 8,000 members and is the largest group of economists and businesspeople in Slovenia. A speech then followed from the Brazilian Ambassador in Slovenia, Her Excellency Katia Godinho Gilaberte, who stressed the many business opportunities between Slovenia and Brazil. »I see the greatest possibilities for cooperation between the two countries in the fields of pharmacy, automobile parts, tourism and sustainable development«.

Matjaž Cokan from Gorenje Brazil and Daniela A. Marc from BIA Separations d.o.o. presented their experience in doing business in the Brazilian market. Mr Cokan noted that Gorenje has succeeded in penetrating the Brazilian market segment of higher priced goods within just 3 years, adding that when doing business with the locals it is important to gain their trust and to be patient. The other speaker pointed out that for a good performance in the Brazilian market the size of the export company and having good references is important. »Slovenia should devote more funds for its promotion, especially in the area of tourism«.

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