Rio Grande Do Sul is one of the most important states of Brazil. It is situated in the southern part of the country. The state has the fourth highest Human Development Index, HDI.

The northern part of Rio Grande do Sul is bordered by the Brazilian state of Santa Catarina while the eastern part of the state is being surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, on the south by Uruguay whereas on the west by Argentina.

Rio Grande do Sul is situated in the south temperate zone and enjoys a mild, temperate climate whereas the coastal zone experiences subtropical climate all through the year. There are only two well-marked seasons – the winter and the summer. The winter seasons extends from June to September. It is characterized by heavy rain and cold breeze (minuanos). Snow is rarely seen, but ice often forms on inland waters during the freezing nights.

During summer the weather remains purely dry. Light rainfall often takes place, northerly and easterly winds prevail and the temperature may reach to 35ºCelsius.

According to the 2006 census report the population of Rio Grande do Sul is around 10.963.219 hab. Whereas the population density was approximately 38,9 hab./km².

Rio Grande do Sul is considered to be one of the most financially strong states of Brazil. It is most popular for grain production, ranching, viticulture. This state of Brazil always retains consistency in the industrial output. The products mainly exported by Rio Grande do Sul include:

• Shoes
• Tobacco
• Beef
• Leather
• Grain
• Automobiles
• Chemicals

Rio Grande do Sul dwellers are popularly known as Gauchos. This name has been derived from the cattle herders and ranchers who settled the state’s pampa. This state of Rio Grande do Sul has a load of colleges and universities and is also a major tourist hub. The transportation facilities offered by this Brazilian state also deserve mention.