The Federação Brasileira de Hospedagem e Alimentação (FBHA) is Brazil’s leading national federation representing the interests of the hospitality and food service industries. Headquartered in Brasília, the organization plays a critical role in advocating for the economic, regulatory, and strategic development of the tourism and service sectors, aligning with Brazil's broader goals of fostering sustainable tourism and business-friendly environments.
Organization History and Background
Established to unify and strengthen the voice of accommodation and food service providers across Brazil, FBHA is an integral part of the Confederation of Commerce and Services (CNC). It functions as a consultative and strategic body, representing thousands of businesses, from small inns and independent restaurants to large hotel chains and food service corporations.
Led by Alexandre Sampaio de Abreu, FBHA has become an authoritative entity in legislative, regulatory, and labor discussions impacting Brazil’s hospitality sector. It works closely with policymakers, trade unions, tourism boards, and international counterparts to ensure the sector’s long-term viability and global competitiveness.
Core Functions and Services
While FBHA does not offer physical products, its portfolio of services and institutional initiatives is robust and strategically impactful:
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Policy Advocacy and Legal Representation:
- Participation in national debates on labor reform, tourism law, tax regulation, and sustainability mandates
- Legal advisory and support to member associations on compliance and regulatory updates
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Industry Coordination:
- Articulation with over 20 regional and local hospitality and food service unions
- Representation at national forums including the Brazilian Tourism Council and the National Confederation of Commerce
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Research and Market Intelligence:
- Sector reports on economic performance, trends in tourism, and employment data
- Public dissemination of legal updates and legislative alerts through "Minuto FBHA"
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Training and Capacity Building:
- Educational partnerships for upskilling professionals in hospitality, culinary arts, and food safety
- Support for member institutions in qualifying workforce and improving service standards
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Digital Communication and Public Relations:
- Video campaigns such as "Minuto FBHA" addressing current topics like tax reform and tourism policies
- Active presence on social media to disseminate updates, promote debates, and connect stakeholders
Specialization and Unique Role
FBHA is uniquely positioned in Brazil’s institutional ecosystem:
- National Advocacy: Recognized by the federal government as a principal stakeholder in hospitality-related policy-making
- Cross-Sector Representation: Covers both the accommodation (hotels, hostels, pousadas) and food service (restaurants, bars, catering) sectors
- Union Affiliation: Provides backbone support to a network of syndicates and trade unions
This dual role allows FBHA to act as both a grassroots and policy-level influencer, bridging operational realities with high-level legislative priorities.
Financial and Operational Structure
As a nonprofit and institutional federation, FBHA is financed through:
- Member Contributions: Dues and service fees from regional hospitality unions and syndicates
- Partnership Programs: Joint initiatives with government bodies and private sector stakeholders
- Educational Program Revenue: Through training initiatives and certifications
Operationally, FBHA manages:
- A Permanent Headquarters in Brasília for institutional coordination
- Legal and Economic Departments for monitoring legislative developments and drafting proposals
- Communications and PR Team overseeing campaigns and media relations
Sector Impact and Data Insights
FBHA represents a sector that plays a major role in Brazil’s economy:
- Hospitality and Food Service GDP Share: Approximately 2.5% of national GDP (pre-pandemic)
- Employment Representation: Sector employs over 6 million Brazilians, many of whom are in small and medium-sized businesses
- Tourism Impact: Indirectly supports over 50 million domestic and international tourist visits annually
FBHA’s policy interventions have directly contributed to regulatory advancements including:
- Lei Geral do Turismo (General Tourism Law): Contributions to the modernization of Brazil’s tourism legal framework
- Reforma Trabalhista (Labor Reform): Representation in labor negotiations and flexibilization for service sectors
Target Audience and Stakeholders
- Trade Unions and Associations: Affiliated bodies representing hospitality and food service workers and employers
- Hospitality Companies: Hotels, inns, restaurants, and food service providers seeking legal and policy guidance
- Government Agencies: Ministries of Tourism, Labor, and Economic Development
- Educational Institutions: Partners in training and vocational programs
Certifications and Governance
- Accredited Member of CNC (Confederação Nacional do Comércio de Bens, Serviços e Turismo)
- Legally Compliant: All communications and decisions conform to Brazilian trade union law and public administrative transparency
- Governance Model: Board of directors elected from among syndicate leaders, with an executive presidency under Alexandre Sampaio
Market Perception and Advocacy Influence
FBHA is viewed as one of the most articulate and respected federations in Brazil’s service sector:
“FBHA has been instrumental in defending the rights of small hotel and restaurant operators during periods of crisis.” – Regional Union President, Rio de Janeiro
“Their legal updates are essential tools for compliance in our daily operations.” – HR Director, Mid-sized Hotel Chain
Its YouTube and social platforms, especially “Minuto FBHA,” are recognized for providing concise, high-impact updates that help members stay informed and proactive.
Major Achievements
- Key Voice in COVID-19 Relief Policies: Advocated for emergency credit lines, employment subsidies, and sectoral reopening protocols
- Active Role in Reform Legislation: Including fiscal, labor, and tourism law improvements
- Recognition by EMBRATUR and Ministry of Tourism: For institutional collaboration and sector strengthening
- Institutional Visibility: More than 40,000 combined social media followers and thousands of monthly engagements across platforms
The Federação Brasileira de Hospedagem e Alimentação (FBHA) continues to champion the development of a modern, inclusive, and resilient hospitality sector in Brazil—anchored in strategic advocacy, institutional strength, and a deep commitment to the businesses that welcome, serve, and nourish the country’s millions of daily guests.