São Paulo, November 14, 2003 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - The increase in exports to non-traditional markets had a significant influence on the elevation of exports this year. Between January and September, the country exported US$ 60.356 billion, 21% more than during the same period in 2002. An historical record in monthly exports was registered in October, with a total of US$ 7.6 billion and a surplus of US$ 2.543 billion.

"In 2003, we were able to expand our sales to non-traditional markets, which is very good, because it means growing diversification in the markets to which our products are sent," said the director of the Operational Nucleus of the Foreign Trade Department (Decex) of the Ministry of Development, Édson Lupatini.

According to him, between January and September, Brazilian exports increased 600% to Malta, 265% to Zambia, and 173% to the Slovakian Republic. "These are rather important and impressive percentages," Lupatini remarked.

He emphasized the participation of non-traditional products in transactions on the international market as a determining factor behind the diversification. Among the products currently negotiated are marble, granite, natural honey, cashew paste, fruits, computers, and bicycles.

"This diversification is very interesting in terms of products and markets. Once again we demonstrated Brazil's export capacity. At this moment, we see that the possibility of increasing exports to these countries is enormous," Lupatini reiterated. (DAS)