With Donald Trump’s recent victory, foreign investors, particularly from Brazil and Portugal, are closely watching the administration’s policies and incentives. Immigration and business policies are expected to shift, with changes to entry requirements and support for foreign investment in the U.S. This article provides an in-depth analysis of opportunities and challenges for Brazilian and Portuguese entrepreneurs, exploring alternative markets, commercial policy changes, and incentives for those seeking expansion into the U.S. market. We will also discuss the impacts of ongoing wars and strategic sectors likely to influence investment decisions.

New Immigration Policy for Business Professionals and Skilled Workers

The Trump administration is expected to adopt stricter policies for foreign nationals, including immigration for business professionals and skilled workers aiming to internationalize their companies. These changes will likely affect visa issuance, especially for investors and startup founders entering the U.S. Additionally, the policy will impact mobility for skilled professionals and students seeking advanced studies in the U.S.

Key Visa Options: The EB-5 visa, designed for investors contributing capital to U.S. businesses that generate jobs, may become a more viable option. Another relevant visa is the L-1, ideal for business owners looking to transfer high-level employees to American subsidiaries. Many will find soft-landing services and support for foreign entrepreneurs essential in meeting the new U.S. entry requirements.

Commercial Policies and Incentives for Foreign Investments in the U.S.

With Trump in office, foreign investment incentive policies are likely to be strategically reformed. Several states, including Texas and Florida, already offer tax incentives and benefits for companies that create jobs and stimulate the local economy. Now, with a stronger focus on protecting the American economy, the government is expected to increase trade barriers, encouraging investments that bring direct value to the U.S. market.

States Offering Incentives for Foreign Investors:

• Texas: Attracts tech and energy companies with reduced taxes and benefits for factory openings.

• Florida: With incentives for Latin American companies and a strategic location for the Latin American market, Florida is a key destination for Brazilians and Portuguese seeking international business expansion.

Entrepreneurs entering the U.S. market should consider consulting services for business internationalization, providing support to meet U.S. regulatory and logistical requirements. Additionally, soft-landing services for startups are essential, ensuring a secure and efficient business structuring process abroad.

Strategic Sectors for Investment: Technology, Energy, and Agriculture

In a transforming global landscape, Trump is expected to prioritize strategic sectors for foreign investments. Key areas include technology, energy, and agriculture, which represent high-impact sectors in U.S. policy and opportunities for foreign entrepreneurs:

1. Technology: Artificial intelligence and cybersecurity are gaining momentum in the U.S., attracting companies that can contribute to local innovation. Support programs for foreign entrepreneurs investing in technology are expected to grow, with particular support from business expansion consulting services.

2. Energy: With a focus on energy self-sufficiency and reduced international dependence, the American energy sector is seeking alternatives in oil and renewable energy. For investors, opportunities in sustainable energy and infrastructure are attractive in states like Texas, which offers expansion incentives.

3. Agriculture: Products like corn and soybeans are vital to the U.S. economy and the Brazilian market. Agricultural investments, especially in cultivation and export technology, present opportunities for foreign entrepreneurs entering the U.S. consumer goods sector.

Impact of the War in Ukraine and the Middle East on Trade and Defense Relations

The war in Ukraine and the Israel-Palestine conflict have consequences for U.S. defense and security relations, as well as for the global economic landscape. Trump may adopt a firm stance alongside historical allies, impacting not only military spending but also global trade. Brazilian and Portuguese companies exporting to the U.S. should monitor economic sanctions and market fluctuations that could affect supply chains.

These conflicts also impact the defense and security sectors, an area that Trump aims to strengthen. Brazil, with its growing defense industry, can explore international business expansion opportunities to serve the U.S. market in areas of innovation and security. Business expansion consulting becomes essential in assisting Brazilian and Portuguese business owners with navigating complex regulations and adapting to new commercial and geopolitical policies.

Alternative Markets for Brazilians, Portuguese, and Mexicans

For those considering investment alternatives outside the U.S., emerging markets in Brazil, Mexico, and Portugal offer strong opportunities and favorable environments. With the possibility of the U.S. market adopting more restrictive measures, exploring these destinations could be strategic.

1. Brazil: Brazil is a top destination for foreign investors in Latin America. Clean energy, agribusiness, and technology sectors are on the rise, particularly with policies promoting sustainable investment. Additionally, support services for opening businesses abroad and services for expatriates in Brazil are appealing for Portuguese companies seeking regional expansion.

2. Mexico: With direct access to the U.S. through NAFTA and advantageous agreements with Canada and the U.S., Mexico is a strategic point for Brazilians and Portuguese aiming to expand internationally. The Mexican market offers incentives for startups and the automotive sector, benefiting greatly from agreements with the U.S.

3. Portugal: Portugal provides favorable conditions for Brazilian entrepreneurs, including tax benefits and incentives for startups and innovation. With a strong tech ecosystem and a welcoming environment for immigrants, Portugal is one of Europe’s top destinations for soft-landing services and internationalization consulting.

Investors and companies considering diversification in these countries can benefit from business expansion consulting and specialized services for structuring and optimizing international operations.

The Importance of Soft-Landing and Support for International Expansion

For Brazilian and Portuguese entrepreneurs, Trump’s new administration demands a strategic approach to entering and establishing a presence in the U.S. market. Soft-landing services for startups and business structuring abroad are critical steps to mitigate risks and ensure compliance with local requirements. Companies seeking U.S. market expansion can rely on expatriate services and business internationalization support.

Soft-landing services not only facilitate entry but also ensure support during the adaptation period, with professionals managing bureaucratic, legal, and cultural issues.

Conclusion

The Trump era represents a landscape of both opportunities and challenges for entrepreneurs and investors seeking expansion into the U.S. With more restrictive trade policies, specific incentives for strategic sectors, and a firm stance on international relations, the environment requires detailed planning and specialized support.

With the potential for stricter immigration policies and reinforced trade barriers, investors should consider alternative markets like Brazil, Mexico, and Portugal, which offer strong expansion opportunities and incentives for business internationalization.

Brazil Visa Hub provides comprehensive support for foreign entrepreneurs looking to leverage these opportunities, from business expansion consulting to soft-landing services for established companies and startups. Whether exploring the U.S. market or emerging markets, partnering with experienced specialists ensures a safe and structured entry into the global landscape.