Brazil leads the ranking in number of business travelers and events in Latin America, according to the International Congress and Convention Association. More than 146,000 foreign visitors came to the country in 2015 to participate in 292 international events – a 10% increase over the 133,000 that came to the country in the previous year. Since 2013, Brazil experienced massive growth (369 %) in the number of business conventions held in the country.
Currently in 11th place in the world ranking of the sector, Brazil is gradually increasing the number of cities capable of hosting international events: a total 59 in 2015. São Paulo (78 events) and Rio de Janeiro (65 events) topped the Brazilian ranking in 2015, with numbers that put them ahead of major economic centers like New York, Chicago and Los Angeles. Considering the Americas (South, Central and North), São Paulo ranked 3rd place and Rio de Janeiro 7th.