Magagilsa Vieira: Advancing U.S. Economic Growth Through International Trade for SMEs

In today’s interconnected world, large multinational corporations dominate global markets. However, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)—the backbone of the U.S. economy—face significant barriers to entering international trade. These challenges include complex regulatory frameworks, logistics hurdles, and limited access to trade education. Magagilsa Vieira, an expert in international trade and foreign market expansion, is leading a mission to democratize access to global markets for U.S. SMEs. By doing so, her work has the potential to boost U.S. exports, create jobs, and strengthen national economic growth—critical factors in the country’s global competitiveness.

Born in Brazil, Vieira has dedicated over 15 years to optimizing trade and logistics processes, earning three degrees in the field and working on high-impact global projects. She played a key role in the successful customs clearance of the P-67 platform in 2018, an operation that saved Petrobras millions in potential storage fees and penalty costs.

Recognizing the untapped potential of U.S. SMEs in international trade, Vieira references a study by the U.S. Small Business Administration Office of International Trade, which found that 97% of businesses that export are small. Yet, despite this statistics, most small businesses do not export. Small business exports comprise roughly 35% of U.S. exports. The study also indicates that "2.6 million small businesses are or have the potential to become exporters.”

“This must change,” Vieira states. “U.S. suppliers produce high-quality, reliable products that would be well received in international markets, but many SMEs lack the knowledge and resources to expand globally.”

To bridge this gap, Vieira developed an innovative digital solution: the Fast and Forward Solutions app, a comprehensive training and education platform designed to equip U.S. SMEs with the knowledge and tools needed to export successfully.

To support this mission, Vieira has spearheaded the development of a solution designed to democratize access to export processes. The Fast and Forward Solutions app provides training and education for individuals at all levels of the supply chain, equipping them with the knowledge needed to navigate international trade successfully.

Committed to empowering organizations from the ground up, Vieira explains, “we designed this app to democratize access to export processes, providing comprehensive training programs that educate and strengthen the entire organization.” She emphasizes that laying a strong foundation through knowledge and education is critical to build expertise within organizations. Critically, she points out, “we strive to educate all levels of the organization on crucial aspects of foreign trade, including negotiation, customs clearance, taxation, and regulatory frameworks.”

To address the challenges SMEs face in accessing international trade, Magagilsa Vieira has spearheaded the development of the Fast and Forward Solutions app. This innovative learning tool is designed to democratize access to vital knowledge on international business, logistics, taxation, customs clearance, regulatory frameworks, and international markets. Vieira emphasizes that the app’s goal is to train individuals at all levels of the supply chain, empowering organizations from the ground up.

By bridging the knowledge gap and fostering a culture of international trade excellence, Vieira believes SMEs can capitalize on global opportunities, drive growth, and succeed in the international marketplace—ultimately making a significant impact on the national economy. Vieira highlights several key benefits: "First, it creates jobs and increases employment opportunities. As SMEs expand their markets, they boost exports, leading to a positive impact on the trade balance. This growth also fosters innovation and competitiveness, driving productivity improvements across industries. Ultimately, a thriving SME sector strengthens the economy by diversifying it and contributing to sustainable growth."

Vieira identifies the lack of knowledge as the biggest barrier preventing SMEs from entering the international market. "The bureaucracy of the importation and exportation customs process can seem so complex, that many SMEs with high-quality products, capable of competing abroad, do not even realize it is possible," she explains. While other challenges exist—such as differing regulations, tariffs, language barriers, and cultural nuances— education remains the most significant gap in the foreign trade.

"To help break down these barriers, I focus on providing comprehensive support tailored to the needs of SMEs through consulting services. However, the real game-changer will be the App, Fast and Forward Solutions, which explains step-by-step all the phases and particularities and turns this 'big monster' at first into a powerful teammate that plays on our side," Vieira asserts. This support includes detailed guidance on international regulations, insights into local market conditions, access to trade finance options, and logistics solutions. The foreign trade and logistics specialist also advocates for collaborative networks that connect SMEs and individuals with mentors and experienced players in foreign trade, helping to bridge the educational gap and drive international expansion.

The benefits of SMEs' expanded ability to trade internationally extend far beyond the businesses themselves. "The expansion of SMEs in the foreign markets benefits a wide range of stakeholders," Vieira emphasizes. "The businesses directly gain from accessing new markets, which can lead to increased sales, revenue growth, and diversification of their customer base. This expansion enhances their competitiveness and financial stability."

The growth of SMEs through international trade leads to job creation while simultaneously stimulating the local economy. Successful SMEs can create a ripple effect in the local supply chain through boosting the demand for local suppliers and service providers. "From a broader perspective, it is possible to affirm that the whole national economy benefits from increased exports, which can improve trade balances, foster economic growth, and generate tax revenues," Vieira concludes.

International trade should be accessible to companies regardless of size. SMEs provide a strong backbone for local economies, fueling the national economy growth. Through her expertise, and innovative solutions like the Fast and Forward Solutions app, Magagilsa Vieira is paving the way for SMEs to access global markets. By breaking down the educational barriers and providing in-depth training for individuals and SMEs from the ground up. Vieira is creating valuable career opportunities while simultaneously fueling expansion on both global and local scales. As the Fast and Forward app gains traction, we look forward to witnessing its impact and Vieira’s continued success.