Driving AmSpec Agri’s Growth in Brazil and Latin America
In this interview, Manoel Araujo, Regional Director for Latin America at AmSpec, shares insights into AmSpec’s remarkable growth in Brazil, the launch of its new Curitiba Laboratory, and how AmSpec is strengthening its presence and expertise across the South American agricultural market. With over three decades of experience in the inspection industry, Manoel reflects on key milestones, client partnerships, and the exciting opportunities ahead for AmSpec Agri in the region.
Could you briefly introduce yourself — your current role, background, and how long you’ve been with AmSpec?
I currently serve as Regional Director for Latin America, supporting AmSpec’s strategic development and integration across the South American market. I’ve been part of the inspection industry since 1992, having the opportunity to work across all areas and hold nearly every leadership position within the country.
In 2017, I joined AmSpec as Managing Director for Brazil, where, together with our dedicated team, we achieved outstanding results — quickly gaining recognition and a strong reputation within the agricultural market and expanding our presence nationwide. In 2024, I took on the Regional Director role, broadening our reach and strengthening AmSpec’s footprint across Latin America.
What has been your journey in leading AmSpec Agri’s activities in Brazil and Latin America?
Challenging — that’s the word that best defines it. The results show that expectations have been met and that challenges have been successfully overcome. This success is due entirely to a team committed to ethics and the high-quality standards demanded by such a competitive market. There’s still much to accomplish, but I feel ready and motivated to face it.
What key milestones would you highlight as most significant for AmSpec Agri’s development in Brazil in recent years?
The group’s investments in people and infrastructure have been instrumental in quickly earning the trust of our clients. The numbers reflect this success: 12 units operating in Brazil’s main ports, more than 350 direct employees, over 300 million tons supervised, and now, the establishment of Brazil’s leading specialty analysis laboratory.
Are there particular projects, partnerships, or investments that best illustrate how AmSpec is strengthening its presence in the region?
AmSpec follows a philosophy of continuous growth, guided by innovation, service differentiation, and personalized client support. Each client is unique — and treated as such. Our most recent milestone has been the expansion of our analytical services, strengthening both our portfolio and our long-term partnerships.
The new Curitiba laboratory marks an important step for AmSpec in Brazil. What does this facility represent for the company and our clients?
For AmSpec, the Curitiba laboratory represents an important leap forward. It allows us to provide high-precision analyses with faster turnaround times — optimizing our clients’ operations while enhancing our competitiveness and investment capacity.
What new capabilities or services does the Curitiba lab bring to our Agri operations?
We now offer advanced analyses for pesticides, mycotoxins, dioxins, GMOs, heavy metals, and biological contaminants — services traditionally limited to only a few laboratories in Brazil. However, unlike many of these, AmSpec’s strength lies in combining analytical expertise with inspection know-how. Our specialized and recognized team provides not only accurate results but also proactive technical support and rapid solutions for the market.
How does this investment align with AmSpec’s long-term strategy and commitment to the Brazilian agricultural sector?
This project reinforces AmSpec’s commitment to our clients in Brazil and the wider South American market. The lab will serve as a reference point for methodologies, regulatory requirements, and global market needs. Over time, we will expand the range of products analyzed, strengthening our connection to both domestic and international markets.
What major trends or regulatory developments are currently shaping the agricultural sector in Brazil?
Our goal is to ensure full compliance with a wide range of international legislation, including European and Chinese standards. The Curitiba laboratory is being developed to follow global best practices and to serve as an example of environmental and sustainability compliance.
How are client expectations evolving, and how is AmSpec adapting its services and strategy to meet them?
From the very beginning, we’ve involved our clients in the process — listening closely and adapting our services to meet their specific needs. The response has been extremely positive; clients are just as eager as we are to see the full launch of our expanded capabilities.
Which emerging opportunities or challenges do you foresee for the Brazilian agri-export market in the coming years?
Brazil continues to be the world’s breadbasket, offering countless opportunities that require continuous investment to realize. In addition to increasing our participation in export and import supervision and analysis, we plan to form a dedicated team focused on port and transshipment terminals, expand through smaller operational units, and strengthen outsourcing partnerships within client facilities.
What are the key strategic priorities for AmSpec Agri in Brazil over the next few years?
Our focus remains on sustainable growth — expanding export and analytical services, increasing our presence at fixed logistics locations, and developing small operational units to enhance proximity and efficiency. Outsourcing and tailored on-site services will be key to our next phase of expansion.
How does Brazil contribute to AmSpec’s broader Latin American strategy and sustainability goals?
Brazil serves as the central hub connecting AmSpec’s activities across Latin America. Many cross-border operations already take place and present significant growth potential. Strengthening collaboration among our regional leaders and deepening our understanding of client needs across countries will be essential. We’re on the right path.
What does AmSpec’s presence in Brazil represent for clients, partners, and the industry today?
AmSpec has become a benchmark for quality and precision in Brazil. This recognition is reflected not only in the positive feedback we receive but also in the growing business volumes and the trust our clients place in us — often involving us early in new project developments and strategic initiatives.
Is there a message you’d like to share about the team’s achievements and future vision?
I am deeply grateful for the dedication of every member of our team. Their commitment to our mission enables us to maintain a strong, steady growth trajectory. We are all aware of the challenges ahead — and equally confident that AmSpec’s progress in Brazil and Latin America will continue for many years to come.