Gov. Scott: Brazil's Export PR HQ Expanding in Miami

Brazils official export promotion agency, APEX, has expanded its U.S. headquarters operations in Miami, according to the governors office.

Gov. Rick Scott, heading an economic trade mission to Sao Paulo this week, announced the expansion Thursday.

According to the release from the governors office:

The expansion and a $500,000 capital investment has enabled APEX to add seven full-time staff, relocate to downtown Miami and expand to 11,000 square feet of space, which is primarily used for 20 business incubator offices.

Based in Brasilia with offices worldwide, APEX promotes exports of Brazilian products and services, supports the internationalization of Brazilian companies and attracts foreign investments into the country. However, its services also extend to providing marketing and business development support for Brazilian companies interested in moving into and growing in the U.S. marketplace. Essentially, APEX helps Brazilian companies access international business opportunities and increase exports.

With the assistance of Enterprise Florida, APEX opened its Miami U.S. headquarters and distribution center with five employees in 2005 at the Miami Free Trade Zone in 7,000 square feet of space.

Brazilian businesses are eager to do business in Florida, said Scott in the release. The APEX expansion in Miami means more Brazilian companies will have the opportunity to learn about what we are doing in Florida to make our state the best place of business to grow and expand.

APEXs staff has grown from five to 18 full-time employees with average salaries of $55,000. In three years, APEX anticipates a staff total of 29.