Latin America as a growth point: Logistical challenges and opportunities when exporting to Mexico, Brazil, and Chile

Latin America is one of the most promising markets for Ukrainian exports. The growing demand for European products, a large number of potential consumers, and low competition open unique opportunities for business development. Exporting to Latin America requires comprehensive knowledge of logistics processes, customs regulations, and the specifics of delivering goods to Brazil, Mexico, and Chile. Complex shipping conditions and regulatory requirements may become a significant barrier. However, GlobalPost turns these challenges into new opportunities.

In this article, we will explain how our air delivery services and professional support contribute to the successful expansion of Ukrainian business into the markets of Mexico City, São Paulo, and Santiago.

Why Latin America Is an Attractive Market for Ukrainian Exports

1. A Powerful and Developing Economy
Brazil is a member of the G20 and ranks ninth among the world’s largest economies. Mexico leads Latin America in trade volumes with the United States. Chile stands out among the countries of the region for its stable economy and strong demand for high-quality imported products.

2. Interest in European Goods
Latin America favors products that meet European quality standards, particularly in the categories of food products, cosmetics, and electronics. Ukrainian goods often demonstrate strong price competitiveness.

3. Benefits for Ukrainian Manufacturers
Ukrainian products are increasingly recognized internationally thanks to their high quality standards, reliability, and environmental safety. This reputation helps Ukrainian companies successfully compete with local producers in Latin American markets.

Logistical Challenges: Brazil, Mexico and Chile

Latin America does not operate under uniform regulations. Customs procedures vary significantly across these three countries, requiring a specialized approach to documentation and classification.

Mexico: Complex Customs Control and Documentation Requirements

Mexican customs authorities use an automated risk analysis system that is especially strict with imported shipments. As a result, imports are more likely to undergo additional inspection. Key challenges include:

• Strict requirements for commercial documentation (Factura Comercial, Carta Porte).
• Complex customs duty calculation due to a multi-level taxation system. GlobalPost offers preliminary cost calculation to help avoid unexpected expenses.
• Complex customs procedures apply to goods intended for children, food products, and cosmetics. Mexico requires mandatory labeling for many items in accordance with NOM (Normas Oficiales Mexicanas) standards.

Brazil: Bureaucracy and ANVISA Regulation
Brazil is one of the most challenging markets for importing cosmetics, food products, supplements, medical goods, and sports nutrition.

• Import License: Importers in Brazil must have active SISCOMEX Radar accreditation to conduct foreign trade activities. We provide guidance on the requirements Brazilian recipients must meet.
• Complex Tax System: Imports in Brazil are subject to high taxation. Accurate duty and fee calculation is critical to determining the final product price.

Chile: Predictable but Demanding Market
Chile is known as the most transparent country in Latin America, yet its regulatory mechanisms remain very strict.

• Phytosanitary Control: Chile has one of the strictest systems in the world for controlling the import of agricultural products and packaging (especially wooden crates), aimed at preventing pest intrusion.
• Easy Market Access: Chile benefits from a well-developed network of international agreements, which can simplify customs procedures when proper documentation is provided.

How GlobalPost Facilitates Export to Latin America

More and more Ukrainian businesses choose GlobalPost as a logistics partner for entering the markets of Mexico, Brazil, and Chile. We offer:

• The best routes tailored to the requirements of each country.
• Support with document preparation.
• Recommendations for shipment packaging.
• Air delivery from 7 days. We offer Express delivery for urgent shipments (samples, electronics) and standard air freight for commercial goods where cost-speed balance matters.
• Full support from sender to recipient.

At the first-mile stage (from Ukraine to the European hub), we use our own road logistics to ensure fast collection and consolidation of shipments. This guarantees that the cargo is quickly transferred to air transport. For complex product categories (cosmetics, food, supplements), GlobalPost helps avoid common mistakes and delays.

→ Before shipping parcels or commercial cargo abroad, it is important to verify whether your goods fall under restricted or prohibited export categories. We recommend checking the current list of restrictions via the link.

Packing and Protection From Climate Conditions

Latin America = humidity + heat + sharp temperature changes.
Exporters should ensure:

• Thermal packaging when necessary
• Moisture-resistant materials
• Durable packaging resistant to mechanical impact
• Sufficient protective cushioning

GlobalPost assists customers with secure packaging and, if required, develops custom solutions tailored to the specific product.
→ For business clients, we recommend reviewing detailed information via the link.

Conclusions

Latin America is a growth point that requires only one thing from the exporter — flawless logistics. To successfully enter the markets of Mexico, Brazil, and Chile, it is critically important to have a partner who thoroughly understands the specifics of Brazilian taxation and Chilean phytosanitary control. GlobalPost helps Ukrainian companies turn distance into a competitive advantage by ensuring speed, reliability, and full compliance with local regulations.

Ready to scale your business? Submit a request on our website, and we will develop the optimal logistics plan for your export to Latin America.