Los Angeles, CA – As California continues to lead the nation in exports and innovation, a growing number of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are turning their attention south—toward the fast-expanding economies of Latin America. At the forefront of this international shift is Gabriel Ramos Pimenta de Oliveira, a renowned International Business Consultant who has spent over 17 years helping U.S. companies expand their global reach.
From his base in Miami, Gabriel Pimenta has emerged as a key advisor for U.S. firms looking to capitalize on Latin America’s surging middle class, digital transformation, and untapped consumer markets. Now, he is focusing his expertise on California-based businesses, particularly those in tech, agribusiness, and sustainable industries—sectors where the Golden State already holds global leadership.
“California is a powerhouse of innovation, entrepreneurship, and export capacity,” says Pimenta. “But many SMEs lack a clear strategy to scale internationally—especially in Latin America, where market dynamics require local insight, regulatory fluency, and logistical agility.”
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, California exported over $178 billion in goods in 2023, with Latin American countries like Mexico, Brazil, Chile, and Colombia ranking among its top trading partners. Yet, the majority of those exports come from large multinational corporations—leaving tremendous room for SMEs to grow.
Pimenta’s mission is to close that gap.
Whether working with a green energy startup in San Diego or a logistics provider in Oakland, he guides clients through every stage of internationalization: from regulatory compliance and customs documentation to cultural adaptation and supply chain optimization.
“Expanding to Latin America is not just about shipping a product—it’s about building relationships, understanding the market pulse, and being present locally,” Pimenta explains.
For California companies, Pimenta identifies Mexico and Brazil as ideal gateways to the region. Mexico’s proximity and trade ties through the USMCA make it an attractive first step, while Brazil’s massive consumer base and demand for tech, agritech, and sustainable goods present high-reward opportunities.
With experience leading U.S.-Brazil trade lanes for logistics giants like Kuehne + Nagel and Agility, Pimenta brings practical knowledge on overcoming regional trade barriers, managing import/export regulations, and identifying trusted local partners.
“Mexico is ideal for rapid market testing and nearshoring,” says Pimenta. “Brazil, while more complex, offers unmatched scale for those willing to invest in long-term strategy.”
Pimenta is particularly bullish on California’s leadership in clean tech, software-as-a-service (SaaS), and medical innovation—all of which are increasingly in demand across Latin America’s urban centers.
“There’s a massive opportunity for California companies to bring solar energy, water conservation technology, and healthtech platforms to regions that are actively investing in sustainable development,” he notes.
Pimenta also highlights e-commerce as a major growth area, especially in countries like Chile and Colombia, where digital infrastructure is improving rapidly.
California’s vibrant immigrant and bilingual business community is another advantage that Pimenta believes is often underestimated.
“Latino and immigrant entrepreneurs in California are uniquely positioned to succeed in Latin America,” says Pimenta. “They understand the cultural context, often speak the language, and bring a global mindset to the table.”
Pimenta works with accelerators, chambers of commerce, and business incubators across the state to provide training, strategic roadmaps, and tailored consulting for diverse founders ready to take their business international.
As the world shifts toward regional alliances and nearshoring, experts like Gabriel Pimenta are helping California SMEs reimagine their role on the global stage.
With his proven track record—$7 million in revenue generated for DSV in 2022, 25 new accounts onboarded, and a specialty in LATAM market development—Pimenta offers not just advice, but action plans grounded in real-world success.
“California has always led the future,” he says. “Now is the time for its small businesses to think globally and act strategically—starting with Latin America.”