“Brazilians often lack trustworthiness. Yes, I said it!”
With 25 years of business experience in Brazil, I can confidently state that approximately 90% of Brazilian business professionals tend to overpromise and engage in unethical and dishonest business practices. The concept of ethics and honesty differs significantly from that of most countries worldwide. There’s always some justification for their actions, if you catch my drift.
Consequently, accomplishing tasks in Brazil becomes exceedingly difficult and complex. Frankly, I’d advise steering clear of investing money there or engaging with Brazilians, as the likelihood of disappointment is high.
Now, you might wonder if there are honest individuals among the 220 million people in Brazil. The answer is yes, but they’re typically discovered through networking and solid recommendations. Once found, they often prove to be the best business partners you’ll ever encounter.
However, Brazil offers tremendous opportunities for investment, boasting amazing products such as commodities, minerals, and much more. Despite the challenges, tapping into Brazil’s potential can be immensely rewarding. That said, it’s crucial to exercise caution and diligence when navigating the Brazilian business landscape.
I’m not suggesting that honest people are infallible; mistakes are normal and happen globally. I’ve made my fair share throughout my career. However, it takes character, maturity, and clear communication to acknowledge and rectify mistakes, especially in business dealings.
So, heed the advice of a fellow Brazilian who has learned to navigate the Brazilian mentality: if you have the opportunity to do business elsewhere, take it. If not, take the time to thoroughly vet the business and individuals involved. Consider hiring a firm to scrutinize the backgrounds and dealings of everyone involved in the deal. Never entrust decision-making power to someone until a trustworthy relationship is established. If someone claims to be too busy to travel but expects your investment, run the other way.
The Brazilian government offers resources where you can check the history and legal cases of most businesses and individuals. However, be aware that multiple Brazilians may share the same name. Always cross-reference the state and CPF (a Brazilian document) to verify the information you receive.
If you ever require our assistance in conducting checks or providing business consulting services in Brazil, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.”
