Brazil, R&D and the role of clusters

2. Bilateral business and relations between Norway and Brazil
Brazil is Norway’s most important trading partner in Latin America, and after the EU and the US, our
most important destination for investments. The commercial relationship dates back to the early 19th
century, when Norwegian dried cod (bacalhau) was exchanged for Brazilian coffee.
Brazil ranks 19 on the list of Norway’s most important trading partners, notably ahead of Singapore,
South Africa and India. In 2010, total trade amounted to some 2 billion USD, representing a 47 per cent
increase from 2009. In terms of exports, machinery (for the offshore industry) surpassed dried cod as
the most important export group in 2010 (currently accounting for some 29 per cent of total Norwegian
exports to Brazil). Fish and seafood still accounts for 24 per cent of Norwegian exports to Brazil. Given
the combination of a strong Brazilian currency and the general growth in Brazil, the future for
Norwegian dried cod in Brazil looks promising for the years to come. There might also be a potential for
introduction other types of Norwegian fish like herring and salmon. Total imports from Brazil amounted
to 1.04 billion USD in 2010, with inorganic chemicals, metals and foodstuffs representing 75 per cent of
the total value of imported goods.
The number of Norwegian companies in Brazil has increased rapidly in recent years. Currently, close to
100 Norwegian companies operate in Brazil (a 100 per cent increase since 2005!). The majority of the
Norwegian companies established in Brazil are within the offshore sector. Major players include Statoil,
Aker Solution, FMC, Sevan Marine, BW Offshore and Seadrill. Within the maritime sector, there are
around 20 – 25 companies established in Brazil, among them Norskan/DOF, Solstad, Farstad and Siem.
According to the latest statistic, 26 per cent of the specialised ships (like anchor handling, heavy lift and
others for special operations) are on Norwegian hands. The demand for trained and experienced
seafarers and officers, as well as skilled labour in sectors related to oil and gas, is a challenge for all
companies. The navy has monopoly as regards maritime education. The Norwegian Ship Owners’
Association and “Høyskolen in Ålesund” are now joining forces in a project to look for the best solution
in this field.
The relation between Norway and Brazil will also be increased as a result of the Norwegian
Government’s strategy for cooperation between Brazil and Norway.
Maritime Transport Fleet Program
The biggest ship-owner of Latin America, Transpetro, is preparing to sail with a renewed fleet. The Fleet
Modernization and Expansion Program (Promef) is part of the Development Acceleration Program (PAC)
of the Federal Government. 49 new oil tankers will assure greater autonomy and control in the
transport of Petrobras production and can serve as basis for the rebirth of the Brazilian maritime
industry.
Only in the first phase, the Expansion Program will generate more than 20 thousand direct jobs.
Moreover, the Brazilian maritime industry, stagnant since the 80’s, is being reactivated. In the same
way, other sectors of the industry were stimulated, among them, the ship parts, iron, steel and
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