ApexBrasil Recognizes International Business Excellence as IAG Joins Race for TAP Air Portugal Privatization
ApexBrasil prepares to honor top Brazilian international businesses as IAG officially bids to invest in TAP Air Portugal’s privatization, highlighting Brazil’s growing global business stature and aviation investment dynamics.
- • ApexBrasil will award outstanding Brazilian companies and foreign investors across 18 categories on December 3, 2025, in São Paulo.
- • 352 companies registered for the ApexBrasil award, a 70% increase from the prior year, showcasing Brazil's expanding global business presence.
- • IAG, owner of British Airways and Iberia, submitted a declaration of interest in acquiring a stake in TAP Air Portugal amid its privatization process.
- • TAP was renationalized in 2020 after receiving €3.2 billion in public funds and serves key routes connecting Brazil, Africa, and North America.
- • The Portuguese government plans to privatize up to 49.9% of TAP by 2026, with IAG competing alongside Air France-KLM and Lufthansa.
Key details
On December 3, 2025, ApexBrasil will host its Prêmio ApexBrasil–Exame: Melhores dos Negócios Internacionais 2025 at Teatro B32 in São Paulo, honoring Brazilian companies and foreign investors across 18 categories. The event, celebrating its second edition, saw 352 companies register—a 70% increase from last year—underscoring Brazil's strengthened presence in global markets. Ana Repezza, ApexBrasil's Director of Business, emphasized the award's focus on talent, innovation, and sustainable development, while President Jorge Viana highlighted its role in fostering dialogue and partnerships for Brazilian products worldwide.
In parallel, international investment interest continues to rise as IAG, owner of British Airways and Iberia, officially expressed its intention to participate in the privatization of Portugal’s TAP Air Portugal. IAG joins competitors Air France-KLM and Lufthansa in vying for a stake in TAP, which the Portuguese government aims to privatize up to 49.9% by 2026. TAP, renationalized in 2020 after receiving €3.2 billion in public funds, boasts important routes to Brazil and connections across Africa and North America, with a recent record of 16 million passengers in 2024.
IAG's spokesperson noted that although conditions remain pending before a formal bid, the group recognizes TAP’s potential complement to its portfolio. This declaration marks a significant step in ongoing efforts to enhance airline competitiveness and expand international connectivity relevant to Brazil and beyond. These developments reflect both Brazil’s growing role in international business and the dynamic interest in aviation investments linked to Brazilian markets.
This article was synthesized and translated from native language sources to provide English-speaking readers with local perspectives.