At the recent ABES Summit, one of the main technology sector events in Brazil, André Queiroz, Manager of the ApexBrasil Business Directorate Office, highlighted data and perspectives that put the national technology sector in the spotlight on the global stage. In a presentation with several strategic analyses, Queiroz emphasized the vital role that innovation and the internationalization of Brazilian companies have in strengthening the national economy.
According to the data presented, the technology sector has been gaining prominence in the global economy. In 2023, spending in the sector totaled 3.7 trillion dollars, with a robust growth of 5.6%. Forecasts for 2024 and 2025 are even more optimistic, however Brazil, which currently sees technology representing 3% of its GDP, equivalent to 320 billion reais, also shows a notable increase in spending, which reached 550 billion reais in 2023, with forecasts of reaching up to 600 billion in 2024. Despite this growth, Queiroz highlighted the need for more effective policies to increase competitiveness and innovation in the sector, since technology imports still exceed exports.
The executive pointed out that Brazil is a leader in scientific research in Latin America, occupying 14th place in the global ranking, with 888 researchers per million inhabitants. However, the country's decline in the Global Innovation Index highlights the urgency of strengthening ties between academic production and the business sector, in addition to the need to increase incentives for innovation.
Why export technology?
APEX believes that internationalizing companies and exporting technology (products and services) are fundamental strategies for placing Brazil on the global innovation map. In its assessment, Brazil is in a comfort zone due to its developed market, but it is possible to grow even more by conquering international markets. Therefore, ApexBrasil encourages entrepreneurs in the sector to undertake internationalization processes, as this strategy contributes to: 1) Risk diversification: expanding internationally reduces dependence on the local market and enables contracts in hard currency. 2) Stimulating innovation: Exposure to new markets challenges companies to innovate. 3) Attracting investments: the international presence signals security to investors. 4) Talent development: internationalization demands a more qualified workforce. 5) Economy of scale: expanding operations can reduce internal costs. 6) Access to global value chains: Participating in international markets differentiates products through sophistication. Thus, ApexBrasil supports Brazilian companies in their expansion, connecting the country to the international scene.
As Queiroz noted, Brazil, with its internalized and developed market, finds itself in a “comfort zone,” but the opportunities for growth on the international scene are vast and should be explored. ApexBrasil positions itself as a pillar of support for companies that wish to expand their borders and integrate into the dynamic and competitive global market, signaling that internationalization and innovation are essential paths for the economic and technological strengthening of the country.
“ApexBrasil’s active participation in the ABES Summit reaffirms the Brazilian government’s commitment to the promotion and growth of the technology sector, consolidating Brazil as an emerging hub of innovation and technology on the world stage,” concludes Queiroz.
To check out photos from the event, visit: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjBQMZF
About ABES SUMMIT
In its 14th edition, the ABES SUMMIT 2024 had as its central theme “Inflection Point: the urgency of the new technological agenda” and explored several topics, such as how to master the technologies that will accelerate the transformation of the economy, regulation and public policies, ESG agenda, multigenerational, inclusive and digital workforce. One of the objectives of the event was to promote a day of immersion for CEOs and leaders, highlighting the power of technology applied to business, where each moment was designed to spark new ideas and strategies. It was sponsored by Magna Sistemas/Almaviva, ApexBrasil, Finep, Caesbra Benefícios, Embrapii, Grilo and Share People Hub. It took place on October 30 at JWMarrioT, in the capital of São Paulo, and featured free online transmission, in addition to content curation by Silvia Bassi, publisher of The Shift.