146 / 199
In the first week of October, tube and pipe
professionals will be streaming back to
São Paulo, Brazil, from all points of the
compass for the 2011 edition of Tubotech
– the sixth International Tube, Fittings, and
Components Fair and the leading such
event anywhere.
With all due respect to the glamour of
Brazil, it represents a practical choice of
venue too, never more so than in this year
of bracing economic conditions worldwide.
For business people eager to look, listen,
and learn, Brazil is the place to be.
Brazilians are optimistic about the future
– and with good cause. Exports have
been diversified so as to reduce reliance
on commodities. The government has
launched a popular and successful effort
to encourage entrepreneurs steeped
in the country’s bandeirante (pioneer)
character.
The largest and most populous country
in South America commands vast natural
resources and a large labour pool. As the
region’s greatest economic power, Brazil is
a leader to be conjured with.