Brazilian States Rio Grande and São Paulo Boost International Business and Tourism Engagements
São Paulo advances tourism promotion at FITUR Madrid while Rio Grande focuses on business and industrial growth with key negotiations and green energy projects.
- • São Paulo participates in FITUR Madrid with a 40m² stand showcasing tourism to Spanish market.
- • Launch of 'Ruta do Fútbol' and 'Afroturismo São Paulo' targets Spanish audiences.
- • Rio Grande focuses on reviving its Naval Pole and attracting new industrial investments.
- • Negotiations with BYD continue; gas supply and thermoelectric plant decisions critical for Rio Grande.
- • Green hydrogen and ammonia production expected to create new markets in Rio Grande.
Key details
Brazilian states Rio Grande and São Paulo are actively advancing their international business and tourism promotion efforts through targeted missions and strategic announcements. São Paulo is participating in FITUR Madrid, one of the world's largest tourism fairs, to showcase its tourism offerings and foster global business connections. Organized by the State's Tourism and Travel Secretariat (Setur-SP) in collaboration with InvestSP, the agency linked to São Paulo’s Economic Development Secretariat, the event highlights a business mission under the SP Connection program. Setur-SP features a 40m² stand presenting local travel agencies, accommodations, and transport services aimed at the Spanish market. Significant initiatives include launching 'Ruta do Fútbol de São Paulo' and 'Afroturismo São Paulo' for Spanish audiences, which had previously been available only in Portuguese. High-level meetings are scheduled with tourism operators, accommodation providers, the UN's World Tourism Organization, and Brazil's ambassador to Spain, Luiz Alberto Figueiredo Machado. Roberto de Lucena, Secretary of Tourism and Travel of São Paulo, described the participation as a key opportunity to internationalize the state's tourism sector and strengthen ties with the tourism industry. Meanwhile, Rui Gomes, president of InvestSP, emphasized that the mission enhances dialogue with the global market and stimulates tourism and economic growth.
Concurrently, Rio Grande is intensifying efforts to attract new industrial and business investments, especially focusing on revitalizing its Naval Pole as part of a long-term strategy to bolster local industry. The Municipal Secretary of Development, Innovation, Tourism, and Maritime Economy, Victor Magalhães, expressed optimism about upcoming business announcements aimed at the southern region. Discussions with electric vehicle manufacturer BYD have been progressing since October 2024, but Rio Grande is prioritizing singular negotiations after GWM chose another location for its investment. The region is addressing challenges posed by gas supply disruptions, with a key decision expected in February regarding a thermoelectric plant's concession transfer, potentially facilitating its operation by 2026. Additionally, Rio Grande’s initiatives to produce green hydrogen and ammonia are expected to open new markets, leveraging local energy resources and demand. The state also upgraded its promotional materials to emphasize economic opportunities rather than focusing solely on tourism.
Together, these coordinated efforts by São Paulo and Rio Grande demonstrate a strategic push to attract foreign investment and strengthen Brazil's presence in international business and tourism sectors. Both states are leveraging unique regional assets, from sports and cultural tourism to advanced industrial development and renewable energy, to catalyze economic growth and global partnerships.
This article was translated and synthesized from Brazilian sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
