Horácio Lafer Piva, chairperson of FIESP/CIESP, on changes in the Brazilian business environment

Abstract

FIESP/CIESP-The São Paulo State Industrial Federation and Center-is the leading entity representing firms and businesspersons in Brazil. It is an association of 129 business syndicates and has about 10,000 businesses as members. It focuses on leading the Brazilian business sector toward a noteworthy international stature. The Federation's structure comprises departments that provide services in the fields of technology, international relations and foreign trade, infrastructure, competitiveness, economic studies and research, legal matters, the environment, and sustainable development. FIESP/CIESP also has a strong presence in the cultural educational, and social areas, through SENAI - Serviço Nacional de Aprendizagem Industrial (National Industrial Learning Service) - and SESI - Serviço Social da Indústria (Social Service for Industry). Horácio Lafer Piva, a 44-year-old businessman, holder of a degree in economics and a graduate degree in business administration, is a member of the board of directors at Indústrias Klabin de Papel e Celulose S/A and BRACELPA-Associação Brasileira de Celulose e Papel. He is in his second term as chairperson of FIESP/CIESP. As the interview below will show, Horácio Lafer Piva has gained attention for his firm and clear opinions. A constant presence in the primary Brazilian debate forums on the economy and society, he also serves in several not-for-profit and non-governmental organizations. He was elected one of the Global Leaders for Tomorrow by the World Economic Forum and is a member of the Group of Fifty, with headquarters in Washington, DC.