The world's 3rd largest consumer of beauty products brings a delegation of 10 companies to the UAE

Middle East region is considered to be one of Brazil's CT&F sector's priority markets for the next few years, with growth expected in the Saudi Arabian market.

To strengthen its market presence in the region, a partnership between ABIHPEC (Brazilian Association of the Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Industry) and Apex Brasil (the Brazilian Agency for Foreign Trade Promotion) is sending a delegation to the UAE for Beauty World Dubai Fair on 7-9 June.

In 2008, Brazilian CT&F exports grew by 20.5% to total $647.8m and in the last ten years, exports have recorded a cumulative growth of 357.6%. Brazil now exports CT&F products to 140 countries compared to 90 in 1998.

In addition to being the fastest growing CT&F market (growing by 27,5% in 2008), Brazil holds third position in the top consumer markets of the world, behind the United States and Japan. According to the Euromonitor ranking, in 2008, Brazil's reached 8,6% participation in the world market.

"Despite the challenging times, we are seeing a surge in the popularity of our products, particularly in the Middle East. In our view, the economic crisis has had a positive effect on CT&F sales as people turn to refreshing their natural looks rather than splashing out on expensive new clothes and accessories,"

said Joao Carlos Basilio, President of the Brazilian Association of the Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Industry (ABIHPEC).

The Middle East is a key market not only for ABIHPEC but for Brazilian exports in general. This was demonstrated by the recent visit to the region of our President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, to further improve bi-lateral trade agreements.

ABIHPEC will be bringing Brazil's CT&F delegation to Beauty World Dubai Fair on the 7-9 June.