By Ayomide Otitoju
As Latin America’s digital economy surges toward a projected value of nearly US$950 billion by 2026 (PCMI), the region is set to welcome its first-ever global tech and innovation event — GITEX LATAM.
Organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and KAOUN International in strategic partnership with the São Paulo Development Agency (ADESAMPA), the event will take place at Distrito Anhembi, São Paulo, Brazil, from March 16–17, 2027.
GITEX LATAM aims to position Latin America as a new global hub for innovation, leveraging Brazil’s growing digital infrastructure, thriving startup ecosystem, and forward-looking policies.
Ricardo Nunes, Mayor of São Paulo, described the event as a “landmark catalyst” that will connect Latin American innovators with global markets. “This platform will unlock capital, forge partnerships, and expand visibility for local startups and enterprises,” he said.
Over the past three years, GITEX has built the world’s largest network of international tech events across 14 cities. Brazil now joins this network as one of the world’s fastest adopters of digital public infrastructure, serving over 150 million citizens through digital IDs and centralized public services.
Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President of DWTC and CEO of KAOUN International, highlighted Brazil’s leadership in digital transformation. “Together with São Paulo’s entrepreneurial spirit, GITEX LATAM will integrate Latin America with the global digital economy — unlocking access to capital, technology, and talent,” she said.
According to the IMF, Latin America’s emerging economies are projected to generate a combined US$6.8 trillion GDP in 2025. GITEX LATAM will accelerate the region’s digital decade, driving collaboration across sectors such as AI, agritech, cybersecurity, healthtech, and renewable energy.
São Paulo — ranked first in Latin America’s startup ecosystem and having attracted over US$33.5 billion in venture capital within a decade — will serve as the ideal host city.
The announcement was made during GITEX GLOBAL 2025 in Dubai, where Brazil participated as the official Country Partner, alongside strong representation from Chile and Ecuador.
The launch also coincides with the 50th anniversary of UAE–Brazil diplomatic relations, underscoring both nations’ shared commitment to innovation, renewable energy, and emerging technologies.
