The progressive integration and interdependence among countries, enterprises and individuals characterize the current international scene. Due to the acceleration of globalization in the last decades, knowledge on international affairs has become an imperative. The ascension of new state and non-state actors in the world system as well as the constant changes in the way they relate imply the need to develop analytical tools that enable us to understand such processes. Governments and companies that manage to grasp the main trends of this process are more prone to seize such opportunities and to overcome the challenges that define them. Thus, the increasing role of emerging markets for exportation, the centrality of foreign investment for economic diversification and the ongoing migration flows are examples of how external conditions are crucial for understanding trends within the State of Rio Grande do Sul.
One of the tasks of the Economics and Statistics Foundation (FEE) is to conduct systemic and in-depth studies on international affairs and their connections with the economy and the society of Rio Grande do Sul. In order for these studies to assist governments, companies and individuals to make decisions, it is desirable to report their main findings in a clear, concise and objective fashion. Panorama Internacional FEE aims to be a communication channel between researchers at the institution and local society, in order to support both the State government and private actors. A more assertive international presence of the local business community as well as a more efficient projection of Rio Grande do Sul in attracting foreign direct investments are demands for a watchful, permanent and consistent interpretation on the international dynamics and their impact on Rio Grande do Sul.