Notes: Great Britain and Brazil have been trading partners for some 200 years. At one point Great Britain was one of Brazil's top five trading partners. Today though, Great Britain has dropped to number thirty-six. In fact, Great Britain has gone from being an influential important trading partner to accounting for just two percent of Brazil's trade. The British Consul would like to change this situation, and so is putting together a trade delegation comprised of people from Northeast Britain who would like the opportunity to form lasting relationships with Brazilian companies.

Members of the trade delegation meet to learn more about the opportunities in Brazil, and to learn about doing business in the country. Brazil is considered to be an attractive market mainly because of its size and scale. Delegates want to capitalize on the market's 185 million people. The consul also helps delegates clearly define and identify how they can do business in Brazil. Each delegate has a different goal. One delegate for example wants to find work placement positions for students, while another is looking for retailers to stock his product. One delegate is looking for a joint venture partner. Most delegates agree that being part of the trade delegation is beneficial because they can work with people who have contacts in Brazil and know the market. Getting an introduction can be important in Brazil where building relationships can be an essential part of a business deal.

Four weeks later, the trade delegation appears to have been a success. One delegate found the jobs placements she was looking for, and another was working with a distributor for his product. The delegate who had been seeking a joint venture was in talks with a potential partner. In general, the delegates were able to close some knowledge gaps, and improve their chances for success in Brazil.

Discussion Questions: In addition to the video and abstract provided, find current event topics to address the following questions. Questions may be answered as numbered. Points will be deducted for responses lacking external resources.

1. How has the relationship between Great Britain and Brazil changed over the last 200 years? What makes Brazil an attractive market for British firms today? Why are opportunities like the trade delegation set up by the British Consul so important to small companies that want to expand internationally? What type of assistance do they provide? How can small firms improve their export performance? What role does the British Consul play in helping firms succeed in foreign markets? As part of its program, The British Consul is setting up a mentor program for trade delegates. As a business person who is new to the Brazilian market place, what does the mentor program mean to you?