An increase of 61% in imports of Brazilian furniture last year, from $455,181 to $733,304, points to the Middle East country as one of the promising markets for the domestic furniture industry. Qatar is one of the 14 countries taking part in the Buyer’s Project, which since 2000 has held business meetings between Brazilian companies and foreign buyers to boost exports.

The CEO of Al Jaidah Brothers, Nabil Basma, who is participating in the project for the first time, said that the amount Brazilian furniture imported by the company surpassed $700,000 in 2015. “The residents of Qatar do not entirely trust the products manufactured in the Middle East, and the price of European furniture is quite high. We are seeking a solution in Brazil to our customers, looking for items that can combine quality and competitive price,” he points out. In his opinion, some products like sofas still need improving. Basma highlights the use of Brazilian furniture in bedrooms. “All wardrobes found in Qatar are from Brazil," he declared.

In the business meetings, he is accompanied by Maria Lourdes Elardo, who works for One Design. She is a sales consultant in Qatar and her job consists in suggesting furniture and accessories for projects to furnish houses and apartments. As immigrants represent the largest share of the country's inhabitants - more than 2 million to 500,000 natives - many homes are prepared to receive those who choose to pay rent. "Movelsul Brasil exceeded our expectations. It is certainly ahead of Index, in Dubai," says Maria. "I am very pleased with what we saw at the fair. The world already knows Brazil for its beautiful women, samba and soccer. Now, we want people to realize that the country can also be known for its furniture," added Basma.