Over 200 companies are exhibiting at CeMAT South America.

CeMAT South America organiser Deutsche Messe is optimistic about the success of the expo that was launched n 2011, with 250 exhibitors expected to participate in the event.

"The countries of South America, many of them boasting vibrant, growing economies, offer countless new opportunities and business openings for the entire logistics and intralogistics sector," says Dr Andreas Gruchow, member of the board at Deutsche Messe AG.

"Numerous international manufacturers are already based there, while others are expected to follow, encouraged by the prospect of stable market growth," he continues.

According to figures published by the German Engineering Federation (VDMA), Brazil is ninth among the world's biggest intralogistics suppliers. In 2010, Brazilian companies generated EUR3.1 billion (USD4.1 billion) in sales, which marked a 45% increase from 2009. In 2010, German intralogistics products valued at EUR331 million (USD432 million) were exported to Brazil. This represents an increase of 27% compared with 2009.

"We will continue to consolidate and develop the event. We have introduced new topics and confidently expect significant growth," Gruchow says.

CeMAT South America will be held from 19-22 March 2013 in a 30,000 sqm (322,917 sqft.) display area at the São Paulo trade fair centre, Centro de Exposicoes Imigrantes.

Forklift manufacturers including Linde, STILL, Jungheinrich, Toyota, Clark, Hyster, Yale and Crown are among the expo's big-name exhibitors.
KION Group chairman Gordon Riske says the company's presence at the trade show will help determine where it positions its STILL and Linde brands. "We have built a new factory in São Paulo. It is a production facility for both Linde and STILL fuel-powered forklifts and warehousing equipment for the Brazilian and wider South American market.

"Thanks to our extensive distribution and service network, we are in an excellent position to do business in South America and will be able to make the most of the burgeoning market opportunities there."

According to Deutsche Messe, the Brazilian government has decided to push the development of the country's logistics infrastructure. About BRL116 billion (USD58.7 billion) will be invested in roads, airports, ports and rail networks by 2015. Foreign companies are expected to benefit from the investment program.