Cambuci, a Brazilian ball manufacturer, plans to take its brand, Penalty, to the Arab market and is currently seeking a distributor for its products in the Arab world. The company used to export to countries such as Bahrain, Qatar and emirates, distributing its products through a local representative, but this came to an end seven years ago. Now Cambuci plans to re-enter the market.

"We see the Middle East as a market very tuned to our product. We know the Arabs identify themselves with the Brazilian style of playing ball. There are many opportunities there. They like the sport and they like Brazil," said Marcello .Cavarzere from Cambuci.

Penalty is one of the most popular brands of sporting articles in Brazil and manufactures products including balls, football strips, football shoes and accessories such as gloves, shin guards and knee protectors.

Cambuci manufactures 300,000 balls and 3,000 shirts per month. The company owns three factory units, two in the northeastern Brazilian state of Bahia, manufacturing balls and textile articles, and another in the state of Paraíba, also in the Northeast, manufacturing shoes. 15% to 20% of its goods go to the international market. In 2006, the company wants to start exporting between 20% and 25%.