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Latinoamérica Business Center (LABC)

Bridging Latin America with the UAE and Middle East

Your trusted platform for expansion, opportunity, and long-term partnerships in the GCC region. Latinoamérica Business Center (LABC) is a platform dedicated to supporting Latin American companies in their international expansion, with a strategic focus on the UAE and GCC markets. Through softlanding programs, trade missions, business matchmaking, market intelligence, and institutional partnerships, we connect exporters, investors, and innovators with real opportunities to grow globally and sustainably.

Our Story: Where It All Began

Launched in March 2022, LABC was created as a joint initiative between the Arab Colombian Chamber of Commerce (ACCC) and a leading Emirati government entity, with a single mission:

To increase Latin America's presence and impact in the GCC through commercial intelligence, strategic alliances, and hands-on support.

We Create Relations, We Make Business

We are a private, non-profit organization founded in February 2009 with the purpose of opening channels for cultural, commercial, academic, tourism, and investment exchange between Colombia and the 22 countries that make up the Arab League.

Our Mission

To empower Latin American businesses to expand globally by bridging them with high-potential markets in the UAE and the GCC region. We provide strategic guidance, trusted networks, and hands-on support to foster sustainable international growth, cultural understanding, and long-term commercial success.

Vision

To be the leading platform that connects Latin America with GCC Countries driving inclusive economic growth, fostering cross-cultural collaboration, and positioning Latin American innovation and talent on the global stage.

Our Values

Collaboration

We believe in the power of building bridges—between people, regions, and ideas—to create lasting partnerships.

Integrity

Transparency, trust, and ethical practices are at the heart of everything we do.

Cultural Respect

We honor and embrace the richness of Latin American and MENASA cultures, promoting mutual understanding and inclusive growth.

Excellence

We are committed to delivering high-quality services and creating meaningful results for our clients and partners.

Empowerment

We support businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals in reaching their full international potential with confidence and purpose.

Innovation

We seek forward-thinking solutions to help Latin American companies thrive in dynamic and competitive global markets.

About the Founders

A multi-generational team with deep roots in Latin American commerce and GCC diplomacy.

Cecilia Porras Eraso

Cecilia Porras Eraso

Founder, Arab Colombian Chamber of Commerce (ACCC)

Co-Founder, Latinoamérica Business Center (LABC)

Cecilia Porras Eraso is a visionary entrepreneur and international business strategist with over a decade of experience building commercial and cultural bridges between Latin America and the Arab Countries.

Linked In: Link

Her leadership has been instrumental in launching the Latinoamérica Business Center (LABC)—an initiative focused on helping Latin American businesses expand into the UAE and beyond. Through her work, Cecilia continues to empower exporters, guide investors, and shape a more connected and inclusive global business ecosystem.


Key Achievements & Milestones


  • Represented Colombia at key global forums, including ASPA CEO Summits (2009, 2013) and Global Business Forum Dubai (2017, 2018).
  • Hosted 10+ business events and 40+ networking sessions connecting Latin America with MENASA.
  • Participated in 15+ international events with 30+ invited Latin American companies.
  • Led 40+ trade and academic missions with 800+ participants to the UAE, Egypt, Jordan, and Qatar.
  • Member of the Federation of South American Chambers with Arab Countries.
  • Promoted Colombia at Dubai Global Village 2019.
Juliana Cabrejo Porras

Juliana Cabrejo Porras

Co-Founder, Latinoamérica Business Center (LABC)

Juliana Cabrejo Porras is a passionate connector of cultures, markets, and opportunities. With a strong background in international relations and business development, she co-founded the Latinoamérica Business Center (LABC) to support Latin American entrepreneurs and companies in navigating the complex and high-potential markets of the Middle East, particularly the UAE.

Linked In: Link

Her commitment to inclusive, sustainable internationalization has been key in building strategic alliances, designing high-impact trade missions, and positioning Latin American brands on the global stage.


Recognitions & Awards


  • Top 15 Women Leaders in the Middle East (2024): Recognized for her significant contributions in fostering connections between Latin America and the Gulf region. Latin Gulf
  • Asia's 100 Women Power Leaders (2023): Featured for her efforts in facilitating business creation between Colombia and Arab countries. Forbes Colombia
  • Speaker at Harvard University's Symposium Honoring Colombian Women (2023): Invited among 22 women to share her experiences supporting Latin American businesses in the UAE. Forbes Colombia

LABC: Where Latin American Exporters Launch Their UAE Growth Journey

The LABC Advantage: Local Insight, Global Impact

We speak both sides

culturally and commercially

Bilateral presence

offices in Latin America and the UAE

Strategic partnerships

with governments, chambers, and private sector

Proven execution

from trade missions to exhibitions to softlanding

End-to-end support

from preparation to partnership success

Market intelligence for informed decisions

Access data-driven insights on Gulf market trends, consumer behavior, and regulatory frameworks to guide your expansion strategy.

Whether you're a startup or an established exporter, we meet you where you are — and take you where you want to go.