Intrix has new associates in Moscow, Russia. Intrix Russia is going to be represented by IMRP www.imrp.ru. Our
associates have extensive experience assisting international companies in conducting business in Russia -- as
well as Russian companies going abroad.
Russia is an interesting market for Latin American companies,
especially in the food industry.
Industry News
The beverage and food sector in the US is facing a notable change, creating good opportunities. The US population is being encouraged to eat "healthier". The government is promoting campaigns against obesity, the most important public health issue (2/3 of American are overweight). Given this fact there are some trends in the market to watch:
Products with low calories, low sugar, and low fat are filling supermarkets.
Organic products are in demand: vegetables, fruits, eggs, milk, and oils. Supermarkets are opening special sections for these products and there are stores and mini-markets specializing in this category of products.
Consumer behavior is indicating these healthier trends. In 1970 the fresh fruit consumption per capita was 96.5 pounds, in 2000 it was 120 pounds, an increase of 25%. People are looking for new alternatives and are willing to try tropical and exotic fruits.
Fish and seafood are also viewed as a healthier alternative to red meat. Popular fast food chains are offering fish-burgers.
We believe now is the right moment to introduce new products in the market. Intrix has successfully developing a market entry strategy for an organic olive oil from Chile. If you are interested in more information about this contact José Miguel Cuevas at
jmcuevas@intrixcorporation.com
Economy in the Region
Argentina is recovering faster than previous expectations.
In 2003 the GDP increased 8.7% and in 2004 the expected growth
is between 7 to 8%. The exports in 2003 were US $29.3 billions
(6.4% more than 2002). The population support to President Kirchner
has also increased. Elected with 22% of votes he now has 90% support.
International Overview
The Russian economy is growing very fast since the recovery from the economic crash in 1998, but the industrial infrastructure and much of social infrastructure (i.e., roads, ports, airports, power generation, water, sanitation, health and education) is in poor condition. Only telecoms and the Internet have been improved significantly. Russia is very rich in natural resources (oil, gas, minerals, metals, forests) but relatively poor in agriculture. Oil and gas exports particularly are very strong.
Total size of the economy is similar to Brazil in purchasing power parity, and per capita income is 20% higher. The population is well educated and literate. The Brazilian government is working to increase the trade with Russia.
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