How to Find Distributors in Brazil?

Md. Joynal Abdin
Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Trade & Investment Bangladesh (T&IB)
Executive Director, Online Training Academy (OTA)
Secretary General, Brazil Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BBCCI)

Brazil, with a population of over 212 million and a GDP of $2.26 trillion as of 2025[1], presents an enormous opportunity for exporters worldwide. Bangladesh’s trade with Brazil has been growing rapidly two-way trade now exceeds $2 billion annually[2]. In fact, Bangladesh’s exports to Brazil surged 26% in the 2024-25 fiscal year to reach $187 million[3], reflecting the South American giant’s rising demand for Bangladeshi goods. As Brazil is projected to become the world’s 8th largest economy by 2026 (with GDP estimated at $2.47 trillion)[4], global exporters especially those from Bangladesh are keen to expand into this vibrant market. However, entering Brazil requires more than just enthusiasm; it demands a well-planned approach to finding the right local distributors and navigating Brazil’s unique market entry requirements. This guide provides an in-depth look at how Bangladeshi exporters can find and partner with distributors in Brazil, covering best practices from initial market research to building successful long-term partnerships.

Why You Need Local Distributors in Brazil

Entering Brazil’s market almost invariably means working with local partners. Although some foreign companies do sell directly, in most cases a local agent or distributor is essential for success[5]. Brazil’s sheer size slightly larger than the contiguous United States and its regional diversity make nationwide distribution challenging for a single entity[6][7]. It is often difficult to find one distributor with full national coverage, so exporters may need to target key regions or multiple distributors to effectively reach Brazil’s consumers[8]. Moreover, if you intend to sell to the Brazilian government, having a local representative isn’t just smart it’s legally required[5].

Local distributors bring several advantages: they understand the regional market nuances, have existing relationships in local retail and supply chains, and can navigate Brazil’s complex interstate logistics and tax variations[6][9]. They also overcome the language barrier by handling business in Portuguese and provide on-the-ground customer service. For Bangladeshi exporters unfamiliar with Brazil’s business environment, a reputable distributor can be an invaluable ally in marketing products and handling import procedures. In short, partnering with a Brazilian distributor is often the most practical and effective route to dispose and promote your products in this vast market[10][11].

Understanding Brazil’s Market Entry Requirements

Before approaching potential distributors, Bangladeshi exporters must familiarize themselves with Brazil’s market entry regulations and requirements. Brazil has a reputation for high import duties and bureaucratic procedures (often dubbed “Custo Brasil”, the cost of doing business in Brazil), and compliance is not optional. Key requirements include:

Authorized Importers: Foreign companies cannot clear goods through Brazilian customs directly. Only a local Brazilian entity with the proper import license (known as a RADAR permit) can act as the Importer of Record and handle customs clearance[12]. In practice, this means you must either establish a Brazilian subsidiary (which can take ~6 months and significant cost) or appoint a local importer/distributor who has a RADAR license to import your goods[13][14]. If you ship products without such a local importer in place, the goods will be held at customs indefinitely[15]. Most Bangladeshi exporters will opt for the latter option – partnering with a distributor who handles importation.

Import Licensing & Approvals: Many products require special import licenses or regulatory approvals from Brazilian authorities. For example, any products that affect human health (pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, medical devices, vitamins, etc.) must be registered with ANVISA (the National Health Surveillance Agency). Such products can only be imported if you either have a local manufacturing unit or, more commonly, appoint a Brazilian distributor authorized to import and distribute those goods[16][17]. In general, Brazil has a system where 16 different ministries and agencies oversee various imports if your product category is regulated, your local distributor will need to obtain the required import permissions (often prior to shipment) from the relevant agency[18]. It’s crucial to discuss these requirements with potential distributors to ensure they have experience in your product category.

Product Standards and Labeling: Brazil has strict consumer protection and labeling laws. All imported products must carry labels in Portuguese providing details like product name, quantity, composition, price, origin, shelf life, and any consumer safety warnings[19]. Metric units are required (with any non-metric units converted)[20]. Before export, be prepared to adapt your product packaging or work with your distributor on stickering to meet these requirements. Additionally, certain products must meet Brazilian technical standards or certifications (for instance, electronics might need ANATEL certification, and machinery might need INMETRO approval). Ensure your distributor can guide you through any compliance testing or certifications needed for your goods.

Customs Duties and Taxes: Brazil imposes import tariffs that can be quite high (it’s part of Mercosur’s common external tariff system) and also internal taxes like ICMS (a state-level VAT) on imports. While your distributor will typically handle customs clearance and paying duties, it affects your product’s final cost. Discuss with your partner how duties and taxes will be handled and priced in. Use appropriate Incoterms many exporters sell on CIF or FOB basis to a Brazilian importer. Note that delivering under DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) is generally not feasible because, as mentioned, only Brazilian entities can legally import goods[12]. Plan your pricing strategy with these costs in mind so your product remains competitive after import.

Registration and Documentation: Both the exporter (you) and the Brazilian importer must be registered with Brazil’s Foreign Trade Secretariat (SECEX) to operate in the SISCOMEX import/export system[16]. Typically, established distributors will have this in place, but as an exporter you may need to provide certain documents. Standard documentation for shipments to Brazil include the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading/air waybill, certificate of origin (if claiming any tariff preferences), and any applicable import licenses or certificates. Documentation must be precise and usually in Portuguese (or accompanied by a translation) to avoid delays.

By understanding these entry requirements, Bangladeshi exporters can have informed discussions with prospective distributors about who will handle which compliance tasks. A good Brazilian distributor often serves not just as a sales channel, but as a compliance guide, helping ensure your product legally enters and thrives in the market.

Best Practices for Finding Potential Distributors in Brazil

Finding the right distributor in Brazil requires a combination of research, networking, and on-the-ground effort. Below are best practices and actionable steps to identify potential partners:

Leverage Trade Networks and Chambers: Start by tapping into organizations dedicated to facilitating international trade. The Brazil Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BBCCI) is one such platform that helps connect Bangladeshi exporters with Brazilian businesses. They organize events (for example, the “Made in Bangladesh 2025” trade fair in São Paulo) aimed at increasing business relations between the two countries[21]. Engaging with BBCCI or similar bilateral chambers can provide you with contacts of importers and distributors interested in Bangladeshi products. Additionally, the Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) of Bangladesh and Bangladesh’s Ministry of Commerce may have insight or directories of companies that have imported from Bangladesh.

Use Government and Trade Promotion Agencies: Even if you’re not a U.S. company, you can learn from the U.S. Commercial Service model they offer business matchmaking services in Brazil to find reliable agents and distributors[22]. Similarly, ApexBrasil (Brazil’s Trade and Investment Promotion Agency) and local industry associations can sometimes assist foreign companies in finding local partners. For instance, the Brazilian embassy’s commercial section in Dhaka or the Bangladeshi embassy in Brasília might offer trade inquiry services. Don’t hesitate to reach out to these bodies with a clear profile of your product and the type of distributor you seek.

Attend Trade Fairs and Exhibitions: Trade shows are highly effective for meeting potential distributors face-to-face. Brazil hosts hundreds of trade fairs annually across major cities like São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and others. In fact, there are over 250 significant trade shows in Brazil each year across various sectors[23]. Identify the key fairs in your industry (textiles, food products, electronics, etc.) for example, apparel exporters might target São Paulo’s fashion and retail expos, while an agricultural products exporter might attend food and beverage fairs. By exhibiting or simply attending, you can connect with distributors actively looking for new products. Ahead of time, obtain the exhibitors list or visitor profile from fair organizers to spot potential partners and arrange meetings during the event. Trade fairs give you a chance to showcase your products, understand competitors, and build relationships with local distributors in a short span of time.

Online B2B Platforms and Directories: In the digital age, you can research Brazilian distributors online. Utilize B2B portals like B2Brazil[24] a platform where Brazilian importers and foreign exporters connect. Create a company profile highlighting your product line and search for Brazilian companies in your sector. LinkedIn is also a useful tool: search for terms like “importer” or “distributor” plus your industry and “Brazil” to find company profiles or professionals. Many Brazilian distributors have English-language websites; a targeted Google search (for example, “distribuidor importador [your product] Brasil” in Portuguese) can yield leads. Compile a list of potential distributors and gather information on their size, distribution reach (which regions of Brazil they cover), and the brands they carry.

Utilize Industry Associations: Brazil has numerous industry associations and trade bodies that often list members or certified distributors in their sector. For example, ABAD (Brazilian Association of Wholesalers and Distributors) is a general body for distributors; sector-specific ones exist for pharmaceuticals, food, textiles, etc. The Santander Trade portal lists 79 professional associations in Brazil by sector[25] these associations can sometimes provide directories or references. Contacting an industry association in Brazil with an introduction about your company and inquiry for reputable distributors can open doors. Similarly, check if there are Bangladeshi diaspora business networks in Brazil with 7,000–8,000 Bangladeshis living in Brazil as of 2025[26], there might be entrepreneurs already importing goods from Bangladesh who could partner or advise.

Evaluate Marketplaces and Retail Channels: Depending on your product, sometimes large retail chains or e-commerce platforms in Brazil source internationally. Retail giants like Carrefour, Grupo Pão de Açúcar, or marketplaces like Mercado Livre might not deal directly with small foreign suppliers, but they often buy via wholesale importers. If your target is large-scale distribution (e.g., getting your consumer goods into supermarkets), you may look for distributors who already supply those chains. In the initial market research, identify where competing or similar foreign products are sold in Brazil and who is listed as the importer/distributor on the label (Brazilian labels often must list the local importer’s name and CNPJ number). This can clue you into which companies are active in importing your type of product.

When reaching out to potential distributors, approach professionally and be prepared: introduce your company and product line (share product catalogs, specifications, and any certifications), explain your market success elsewhere (e.g., if you already export to EU/USA, mention it), and describe what kind of partnership you envision (exclusive distribution, region-limited, etc.). Patience is key – allow for time zone differences and possibly some language barriers (having your materials in Portuguese can help make a good impression). In the next section, we’ll discuss how to evaluate and select the best distributor from the candidates you identify.

Evaluating and Selecting the Right Distributor

Finding potential distributors is only half the journey you need to evaluate which partner is the best fit and trustworthy to grow your business in Brazil. Here are best practices for vetting and selecting your distributor:

Conduct Thorough Due Diligence: Before signing any agreement, research the background and reputation of the distributor. Request business references for example, other foreign brands they have represented. It is often worthwhile to conduct a credit check or financial due diligence on significant partners to ensure they are solvent and reliable. The U.S. Commercial Service (CS) in Brazil even provides lists of credit rating companies and law firms that can vet potential local partners[27]. Even if you’re a Bangladeshi exporter, you can independently hire a Brazilian firm to run a background check. Verify that the distributor has a valid company registration (CNPJ) and necessary import/export licenses. If possible, visit their facilities or have a representative in Brazil do so seeing their warehouse, office, or showroom can speak volumes about their professionalism.

Assess Market Coverage and Capabilities: Evaluate whether the distributor’s sales network aligns with your target market. Do they cover the geographic regions and sales channels (wholesale, retail, e-commerce) that fit your product? For example, a distributor strong in the Southeast (São Paulo/Rio) can give you access to the largest consumer base, but maybe your product has unique opportunities in the agrarian South or the Northeast ensure the partner can either cover those or is willing to work with sub-agents. Also, discuss their logistics capabilities. Brazil’s size and infrastructure mean that distributing nationwide is challenging ask if they maintain regional warehouses or how they handle shipping to far-flung areas. A good distributor should have a plan for inventory management (some use bonded warehouses to defer import taxes until sale[28]) and a reliable delivery system. If they primarily operate in one region, you might consider appointing multiple distributors (just be careful with overlapping territories to avoid conflict).

Gauge Interest and Product Understanding: The best distributor is one who is genuinely enthusiastic about your product and market potential. Notice if the prospective partner has done their homework on your company or asks insightful questions about your product’s competitive advantages. During initial talks, a serious distributor might discuss how to position your product, what marketing they’d do, and share sales projections. If a candidate seems passive or only talks about taking orders, they may not put in the effort to actively promote your products. Look for a partner who sees a mutual growth opportunity and is ready to invest time in building your brand in Brazil.

Language and Communication: Ensure there are no major communication barriers. If you or your team are not Portuguese-speaking, it helps if the distributor’s team can communicate in English (or another common language) for smooth collaboration. As a Bangladeshi exporter, you might not have Portuguese speakers on staff, so test the waters during negotiations are you able to communicate clearly? Miscommunication can lead to costly mistakes in orders or marketing. In any case, plan to have key materials translated into Portuguese (contracts, product manuals, marketing collaterals) either the distributor can assist or you should hire a professional translator as clear communication in the local language will help the partnership run smoothly[29].

Pilot Projects or Trial Period: If feasible, you might start with a trial period or a small initial order to test the relationship. This could mean the distributor takes a smaller consignment of your products to gauge market response, before committing to a long-term exclusive contract. This trial can demonstrate how proactive the distributor is in selling your product and how the operational aspects (import, delivery, payment) work out. Be sure to clarify the terms of such a pilot (e.g., pricing, marketing support, and what happens after the trial ends).

Ultimately, trust your instincts as well. If something feels off e.g., a distributor is pressuring you to sign quickly without due diligence, or their references don’t check out it’s better to take a step back. Brazil’s market is too large to tie yourself to a partner who isn’t right. Remember, a “good partner is an important ally” who can even help protect your interests (like your intellectual property) locally[30]. Choose someone with whom you can envision a transparent and collaborative relationship.

How to Find Distributors in Brazil? — Opportunities in Brazil–Bangladesh Trade: A Decade-Long Analysis

Negotiating Distribution Agreements and Legal Considerations

Once you’ve identified the right distributor, the next step is to formally structure the partnership. Negotiating a robust distribution agreement is crucial to protect both parties and set clear expectations. Here are key considerations and best practices:

Engage Legal Expertise: Brazilian commercial law has its intricacies, and any contract must conform to Brazilian Civil Code. It’s strongly recommended to consult a Brazilian legal advisor before signing any distribution or agency contract[31]. A local lawyer can ensure your agreement complies with local laws and that your interests are safeguarded. For instance, Brazil distinguishes between distributors (who buy/sell goods) and commercial agents or sales representatives (who facilitate sales for a commission)[32][33] each may be subject to different legal frameworks (e.g., Law 4,886/1965 protects sales representatives with specific termination clauses[33]). If your arrangement is a true distributor (they purchase and resell your goods), your contract will likely be governed by general contract law, offering more flexibility than an agency contract. A lawyer will draft or review terms to ensure clarity and legality.

Define the Scope and Territory: Clearly spell out whether the distributor has exclusive rights in Brazil or a region, or if it’s a non-exclusive deal. Brazil’s market is huge; some Bangladeshi companies give exclusivity for the whole country to one partner initially, but you might limit it to certain states or a trial period of exclusivity that renews based on performance. The contract should define the territory and market segment (e.g., are online sales included, or certain key accounts reserved?). Also clarify if the distributor can export your products to other countries or if they are limited to Brazil (parallel exporting can be a concern).

Performance Metrics: Including performance clauses ensures your distributor stays committed. These could be minimum sales targets, market share goals, or frequency of marketing activities. For example, you may agree that the distributor must import and sell at least X units or dollars worth in the first year, with targets increasing thereafter. If targets are consistently missed, you might reserve the right to terminate or make the contract non-exclusive. Outline how the performance will be measured (e.g., quarterly sales reports). Having concrete targets provides “clear incentives to honor the contract”[30] and aligns both parties on growth objectives.

Marketing and Promotion Obligations: Discuss and document who is responsible for marketing your products in Brazil. Will the distributor advertise or attend trade shows on your behalf? Often, distributors handle local marketing, but you might agree to share costs or provide marketing materials. If your product requires technical support or after-sales service, clarify those responsibilities too (training, spare parts, customer service). All such promotional obligations and support duties can be included in the contract[34]. For instance, “Distributor will participate in at least two major trade fairs in Brazil per year to promote the products” or “Supplier will provide training sessions and initial marketing brochures in Portuguese.”

Pricing and Payment Terms: Negotiate how pricing will work. Typically, you’ll sell to the distributor at an export price, and they set the local resale price. Ensure the pricing allows them sufficient margin after import costs and taxes, but also consider a clause to prevent excessive markups that could make your product uncompetitive. Decide on the currency (USD, BRL, etc.) and payment terms for your sales to the distributor. Common terms are advance payment for first orders, moving to net 30 or 60 days on open account as trust builds. You might use letters of credit for initial large shipments. Also clarify who bears which costs e.g., freight, insurance, import duties usually the distributor covers local costs, but your agreement (and chosen Incoterm) should specify this. Because cross-border payments are involved, consider methods that are safe and convenient (bank transfer, LC, etc.), and be mindful of foreign exchange regulations (Brazil has some currency controls, but generally international transfers out of Brazil for import payments are standard practice[35]).

Contract Duration and Exit Clauses: Set a reasonable term length for the agreement (for example, two or three years to start, with automatic renewal if things go well). Include provisions for termination: under what conditions can either party terminate early? Typical reasons might be breach of contract, bankruptcy, failure to meet sales targets, or mutual agreement. It’s wise to include a clause for notice period (e.g., 60 or 90 days notice to terminate without cause after an initial lock-in period). Additionally, clarify what happens upon termination can the distributor sell off remaining inventory, and do they have to stop using your trademarks immediately, etc. Brazilian law, especially for agents, may mandate compensation for termination without due cause, so legal counsel is important here. For a distribution contract, you have more freedom to agree on terms, but being explicit prevents misunderstandings.

Intellectual Property and Branding: Ensure your contract protects your trademarks, brand names, and any IP. Typically, you should not allow the distributor to register your trademarks in Brazil on your behalf you as the exporter should directly register your brand with INPI (Brazil’s intellectual property office) to retain control. There have been cases where local partners register a foreign supplier’s trademark, which can cause big problems if the partnership ends[30]. Include clauses that the distributor is authorized to use your trademarks for the purpose of selling the products, but that all IP rights remain with you. If you share any confidential information or know-how, have confidentiality (non-disclosure) clauses and possibly non-compete clauses (e.g., the distributor should not launch a directly competing private label product while representing yours). A well-drafted contract will formalize these protections[36].

Dispute Resolution: Decide how disputes will be resolved through Brazilian courts or via arbitration. Many international contracts opt for arbitration (in a neutral venue or under recognized rules like ICC). However, enforceability in Brazil should be considered; Brazil is party to the New York Convention (enforcing foreign arbitration awards), but you could also choose arbitration in Brazil. If using courts, it often must be Brazilian courts for the distributor to be comfortable. Also consider the language of the contract (bilingual contracts English-Portuguese are common; if so, specify which version prevails in case of divergence).

In sum, take your time to negotiate a comprehensive agreement that addresses these points. It might feel tedious, but having clarity in writing will save you from serious headaches later. Both you and the distributor should feel the terms are fair and set the stage for a win-win collaboration. As a final step, once the contract is ready, review it jointly to ensure mutual understanding. With the legal framework in place, you can then focus on making the partnership a commercial success.

Building a Successful Partnership with Your Distributor

Signing a distributor is not the end of the journey it’s the beginning of a partnership that needs nurturing. To truly succeed in Brazil, Bangladeshi exporters should work hand-in-hand with their distributors and be mindful of business culture nuances. Here are some tips to build a strong, productive relationship:

Invest in Personal Relationships: In Brazil, trust is everything. Business culture is highly relationship-driven, meaning people prefer to do business with those they know and like personally[37]. Don’t be surprised if initial meetings or calls with your distributor involve a lot of friendly small talk about family, football, or food before diving into business. This is an essential part of building rapport. Take time to visit Brazil if possible meeting your partner face-to-face, sharing meals, and experiencing the local culture can solidify trust. As one guide notes, early on “personal rapport is considered more important than the business proposal itself”, and social interactions lay the foundation for future deals[37]. So be warm, patient, and show genuine interest in your partners as people. This human connection will pay off when challenges arise and you need to work through them collaboratively.

Support Your Distributor: Your distributor might be handling multiple brands, including competitors, so you want to ensure your product gets adequate focus. Help them by providing sales training, product demonstrations, and marketing materials in Portuguese. If your product is technical, offer training sessions for their sales and technical staff. Provide samples or demo units if applicable. Work with them on a marketing plan perhaps co-sponsor some promotions or adapt your global marketing content to suit Brazilian consumers. By investing in brand awareness (through social media, local influencers, trade journal ads, etc.), you create pull demand that makes the distributor’s job easier. Regularly ask for feedback from the field what are customers saying? What challenges in selling are they facing? Use that information to refine your approach (maybe adjusting pricing, packaging, or even product features for the Brazilian market). A partnership where you treat the distributor as an extension of your team rather than a mere buyer will encourage them to prioritize your products.

Maintain Regular Communication: Bridge the distance between Bangladesh and Brazil with consistent communication. Set up a schedule for regular check-ins (e.g., monthly video calls to discuss sales pipeline, and weekly emails for operational updates). Quick responsiveness is key: if your distributor sends an inquiry or faces a problem (like a delayed shipment at port or a customer question about the product), address it promptly. Overcome time zone differences by finding overlapping work hours or be flexible for calls in early morning or late evenings when needed. Clear communication also means overcoming language nuances if heavy technical discussions are needed and language is a barrier, consider hiring an interpreter for meetings or have bilingual documents. Misunderstandings can be costly, so err on the side of over-communicating. Many Bangladeshi companies find success by assigning a specific account manager to handle the Brazil market, acting as the single point of contact for the distributor this person can build a closer rapport and understanding over time.

Respect Cultural Differences: Brazil’s business etiquette has its own flavor. Hierarchies can be important in Brazilian companies try to identify the key decision-makers on the distributor’s side and ensure you show them due respect (for example, addressing senior executives more formally)[38]. Negotiations may not always be as direct or fast-paced as you’re used to; Brazilians might avoid open confrontation, so read between the lines if they seem hesitant and address concerns tactfully. Language is a big part of culture while many educated Brazilians speak some English, Portuguese is the language of business and daily life. Always include a bit of Portuguese in correspondence (even if it’s just a greeting or thank-you) it shows goodwill. Avoid assuming similarities with Spanish; Brazilians are proud of their distinct language and culture[39]. Also, be mindful of time: in some contexts Brazilians have a more flexible view of punctuality, but in business hubs like São Paulo, being late is frowned upon[40]. When visiting, dress professionally business attire is expected in most meetings, reflecting respect and seriousness[41]. By showing cultural sensitivity and adaptability, you’ll earn your partner’s respect.

Monitor Performance and Provide Feedback: Use data to keep the partnership on track. Monitor sales figures against targets and discuss them openly with your distributor. If certain regions or products are underperforming, engage in problem-solving together. Perhaps pricing needs adjustment or additional marketing is required collaborate on solutions rather than placing blame. Conversely, recognize and reward success. If your distributor surpasses a target or secures a big client, congratulate them and consider incentives (like a bonus discount, marketing funds, or even just a celebratory dinner). This positive reinforcement strengthens the partnership. Keep an eye on end-customer feedback as well a spike in demand could indicate your distributor needs to stock more, whereas any recurring complaints (like product damages, etc.) might indicate logistic issues you need to address jointly.

Be Patient and Persistent: Building a market presence in Brazil won’t happen overnight. Give your distributor reasonable time to grow the business it can take a year or more to see substantial results as they establish your brand. However, ensure they are making steady progress (adding new clients, increasing order frequency). If challenges arise regulatory delays, slower sales work together on a plan B rather than expressing frustration. From bureaucracy in ports to economic fluctuations, there will be hurdles beyond anyone’s control. A hallmark of a good partnership is weathering these challenges together with persistent effort and mutual support.

In essence, treat your Brazilian distributor not just as a client, but as a strategic partner. Both parties share a common goal: to profit from successfully selling your products in Brazil. By combining your strengths your quality products and global experience, and their local market know-how and network you set the stage for a thriving business. Many multinational companies attribute their success in Brazil to finding “the right partner” and then working closely with them over years. Bangladeshi exporters can do the same by fostering strong, trust-based partnerships.

Conclusion

Expanding into Brazil can be a game-changer for Bangladeshi exporters and other global businesses it’s a vast market with a growing consumer base and increasing receptiveness to international products. However, success in Brazil hinges on finding and collaborating with the right local distributors. From the outset, doing your homework on Brazil’s market entry rules and cultural landscape will give you a solid foundation. Use all available avenues – trade organizations, fairs, online networks, and government resources to identify potential distributors, and then rigorously evaluate them for the best fit.

Remember that the partnership with a distributor is not merely transactional; it’s a long-term relationship that requires attention and care. By negotiating clear agreements and fostering open communication, you can avoid pitfalls and ensure both you and your distributor are motivated and accountable. Adaptability is key be ready to tailor your approach to Brazil’s unique business environment, whether that means adjusting your product labeling, meeting Brazilian regulatory standards, or simply adjusting your communication style to local norms.

For Bangladeshi exporters, Brazil offers the allure of diversification beyond traditional markets. With bilateral trade already above $2 billion and rising[2][35], the groundwork is laid for greater engagement. By implementing these best practices from diligent distributor search to nurturing the partnership Bangladeshi companies can unlock Brazil’s potential and create a win-win outcome. Expanding your global footprint into Brazil is a challenging endeavor, but with the right distributor and a strategic approach, it can lead to substantial rewards in the form of new customers, increased revenues, and a presence in one of the world’s most dynamic emerging economies. Boa sorte e boas parcerias good luck and good partnerships!

Sources:

Worldometers – Brazil GDP and population (IMF 2025 data)[1]
The Guide (Brazil) – Report on “Made in Bangladesh 2025” trade fair in São Paulo[2]
The Business Standard (Bangladesh) – “Bangladesh’s export to Brazil up 26% in FY25” (30 Aug 2025)[3][4]
Privacy Shield/Trade.gov – “Using an Agent/Distributor to Sell in Brazil” (U.S. Commercial Service guidance)[5][8][31]
Privacy Shield/Trade.gov – Brazil Import Requirements & Documentation[16][17]; Labeling Requirements[19]
Novatrade Brasil – Guide on setting up local stock in Brazil (importation via RADAR permit)[12][13]
Santander Trade Portal – Brazil Trade Shows and B2B Marketplaces[23][24]
Privacy Shield/Trade.gov – Brazil Due Diligence Guidance[30][36]
Biz Latin Hub – Brazil Business Culture & Etiquette (2024/25)[37][29][39][40]