Rio - The BioFach América Latina 2004, the continent's biggest organic product fair, ended on Friday with business worth much more than expected; a reported US$2.6 million (R$8 million).

The fair's organizers and participants were enthusiastic about the results. Simone Valladares, who makes natural soaps and cosmetics in Nova Friburgo, Rio de Janeiro, says there are many export opportunities and that assistance from the Small Business Administration (Sebrae) and the Export Promotion Agency have been fundamental for the sector.

Biofach is the name of the most important organic product fair that takes place annually in Nuremburg, Germany. The event in Rio was the first Latin American version which should be repeated next year.

Agência Brasil
Reporter:Cristina Índio do Brasil
Translator: Allen Bennett
09/13/2004