U.S. Interests Burgeoning in Mato Grosso do Sul

Campo Grande , Mato Grosso do Sul

CG Thomas Kelly and Mayor of Tres Lagoas Marcia Moura

CG visit to International Paper

On his first trip to Mato Grosso do Sul (MS), famous for the Pantanal and the world’s largest wetlands, Consul General Thomas Kelly witnessed how an American company’s presence was contributing to the state’s dynamic economic growth.  In addition to courtesy calls with MS Governor André Puccinelli and Mayor of Campo Grande Nelson Trad Filho to discuss enhanced partnerships in industry and agriculture, the CG traveled to Tres Lagoas, Mato Grosso do Sul’s fourth largest city.   There International Paper’s Latin America President Jean-Michel Ribieras and Mayor Marcia Moura accompanied CG Kelly on a tour of the International Paper facilities, which represent a prime example of growing business opportunities in the state.  CG Kelly cited International Paper ”as an example of how U.S. businesses are seeing prospects for growth and partnerships beyond traditional industrial centers.  We would like to see more trade and business in places all over Brazil.”

Speaking to an audience at the Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, CG Kelly discussed how President Obama’s recent visit to Brazil deepened the strategic and economic relationship between the U.S. and Brazil.  He likewise highlighted the Consulate’s promotion of more educational exchanges between the two countries.  In a lunch with representatives of the Mato Grosso do Sul Federation of Industries (FIEMS), CG Kelly shared ideas on attracting joint business opportunities with American firms.   During the visit, CG Kelly interviewed with TV Morena, Campo Grande’s largest television station, and agricultural station Canal do Boi.  He also participated in a press conference with local radio stations and newspapers at which he responded to questions on visas, trade relations, and agricultural subsidies as well as his first impressions of Campo Grande and Tres Lagoas.