Our History
Sojitz throughout history in Brazil.
Sojitz Corporation has its roots in the merger of two traditional Japanese trading companies:
Nichimen Corporation and Nissho Iwai Corporation, both with
centuries-old trajectories marked by innovation and a global vision.
Throughout more than 150 years of history, we have actively contributed to the
economic development of various countries and regions around the world.
Today, the Sojitz Group consists of approximately 400 subsidiaries and
affiliates in Japan and across other continents, conducting diversified operations as a
global general trading company, with a strategic presence in multiple sectors and markets.
2022
In partnership with Braskem, the Sojitz Group invested in and established the Joint Venture Sustainea Bioglycols, focused on the production of Bio-MEG (monoethylene glycol) and Bio-MPG (monopropylene glycol) — renewable raw materials widely used in the chemical, cosmetics, textile, and packaging industries.
2021
We signed a collaboration agreement with CBMM and Toshiba for the joint development of next-generation lithium-ion batteries, using the element niobium.
2018
The Sojitz Group expanded its presence in the Brazilian market by entering the automobile sales segment in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, through the majority acquisition of Intercontinental Comércio de Veículos S.A., the official representative of the Audi brand.
2015
The Sojitz Group expanded its presence in the vehicle market in the state of Santa Catarina through a partnership with Top Car Veículos S.A., the official representative of the BMW, BMW Motorrad, and MINI brands.
2011
The Sojitz Group made a significant investment in CBMM, Brazil's leading niobium producer, through a partnership among companies from Japan and South Korea, involving JFE Steel, Nippon Steel, JoGMEC, POSCO, and NPS.
2009
Sojitz began oil production in the Frade Field, in a joint operation with Petrobras, Chevron, Inpex, and Jomec.
This achievement represents the first production of a Brazilian oil field carried out by a Japanese company, marking an important milestone in Sojitz's presence and expertise in the national energy sector.
1974
Sojitz, in partnership with Vale and Japanese groups, including Japanese plants, participated in the creation of Nibrasco, an iron ore pelletizing plant located in Tubarão.
1970s
Equity participation in the Camaçari petrochemical hub together with Petrobras, Odebrecht, and other companies.
1955
Sojitz coordinated the first import of iron ore from Brazil to Japan, a historic milestone that strengthened trade relations between the two countries and opened new opportunities in the international commodities trade.
1950s
Sojitz established strategic offices in the cities of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, strengthening its presence and proximity to clients, partners, and key markets in the country.
