Introduction
Over the past fifteen years Brazil has made remarkable transformations from economic isolation to global integration to becoming a leading market. Some high points in the development include the privatization program started in 1990, extensive import tariff reform during the early 1990s, external debt re-negotiation completed in 1994, and the termination of the Asuncion treaty (which allowed for more exclusive trade in South America). Then, Mercosur began on January 1, 1995. Control of inflation was perhaps the single most important development contributing to Brazil’s recent economic and political stabilization. By containing inflation and promoting fiscal reform, the Brazilian Government inspired domestic and foreign investor confidence and spurred internal consumption and foreign investment levels. Extensive legal reforms followed to help Brazil’s legal framework keep pace with rapidly changing economic realities, particularly enhancing foreign investment opportunities. This paper will explore the unique historical, cultural and economic aspects of Brazil that have contributed to its maturity and have made the country a positive foreign investment in today’s competitive global market.
Country Overview
Brazil's population reached 175 million in 2002, making it the sixth most populous country in the world after China, India, the United States, Indonesia, and Russia. The current population is 182 million. Average population density is low compared to that of other heavily populated countries. Most people live on or near the Atlantic coast of the southeastern and northeastern states.
Brazil is the largest Latin American country, covering nearly half the South American landmass, it occupies an area of 3,286,470 sq. miles. It is the fifth lar ...