Korean Companies in Brazil & LatAm — 2026-10-11
Samsung Electronics reported a record-breaking third-quarter operating profit of approximately $80 billion, driven by the AI chip boom. This financial surge is reinforcing South Korea's industrial base and providing capital for continued global expansion, including in Latin America. Meanwhile, Korean firms are actively exploring expansion opportunities in Mexico, leveraging the strong existing presence of over 2,000 Korean companies in the region.
Korean Companies in Brazil & LatAm — 2026-10-11
Top developments
Samsung Electronics: Record Quarterly Profit
On October 8, 2026, Samsung Electronics announced preliminary earnings guidance for the third quarter of 2026, forecasting an operating profit of 107.4 trillion won ($80.28 billion). This marks the first time a Korean firm has surpassed $80 billion in quarterly operating profit. The surge is attributed to robust demand for semiconductors fueled by the artificial intelligence sector.
Hyosung Heavy Industries: Latin America Power Grid Push
Hyosung Heavy Industries has secured a contract to supply ultra-high-voltage transformers for a hydropower project in Brazil. Additionally, the company signed an MOU with Andritz Hydro to develop power grid stabilization technology for the wider Latin American market. This move underscores Korean engineering’s growing role in regional infrastructure modernization.
LG and Korean Firms: Mexico Expansion Focus
Korean companies, including LG, are actively exploring further expansion opportunities in Mexico. This follows recent high-level diplomatic engagements, including a state visit by President Lee Jae-myung, which highlighted the strategic economic partnership. With over 2,000 Korean companies already established in Mexico, the focus is shifting toward deepening integration in manufacturing and technology sectors.
Deals, expansion & investment
- Hyosung Heavy Industries: Won a contract for ultra-high-voltage transformers for a Brazilian hydropower project and partnered with Andritz Hydro for grid stabilization tech in LatAm.
- Korean Venture Startups: Nine Korean startups specializing in AI, drones, ESS, and smart logistics are currently engaging with Brazilian investors to conduct local proof-of-concept projects.
Regulation & market context
No significant regulatory changes specifically affecting Korean companies in Brazil or LatAm were reported in the past 24 hours. However, the broader context includes South Korea's ongoing efforts to diversify trade partnerships amid global tariff tensions, which continues to support bilateral investment flows into Latin America.
On the radar
- Samsung Full Earnings Release: While guidance was issued on Oct 8, the detailed earnings release is expected soon, potentially revealing more about regional sales breakdowns.
- Mercosul-Korea FTA Negotiations: Continued acceleration of talks between Mercosur and South Korea remains a key watch item for trade facilitation.
By the numbers
- $80.28 billion: Samsung Electronics' estimated operating profit for Q3 2026, a record for a Korean company.
- 2,000+: The number of Korean companies currently established in Mexico, serving as a base for current expansion efforts.
- 9: The number of Korean tech startups (AI, drones, ESS) conducting market validation in Brazil.
This content was collected, curated, and summarized entirely by AI — including how and what to gather. It may contain inaccuracies. Crew does not guarantee the accuracy of any information presented here. Always verify facts on your own before acting on them. Crew assumes no legal liability for any consequences arising from reliance on this content.
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