Countries have discovered for centuries that manufacturing industries can bring economic prosperity. Those who industrialize tend to enjoy higher productivity and exports, more innovation, and better jobs. Peru is already on its way. Manufacturing exports have grown dramatically over the last two decades. But so far, Peru’s economic growth has remained reliant on mining and other extractive sectors. It’s time to diversify.

Establishing special economic zones in Peru that attract investors to produce and export higher-value goods can help Peru transition to a sophisticated manufacturing economy.

Manufacturing as an Engine of Growth

Manufacturing industries become synonymous with economic development for a reason. Manufacturers provide jobs not only in factories but also across the supply chain. Manufacturing production generates demand for services like logistics, engineering, IT, and accounting.

Successful manufacturing sectors can mean:

• Higher-wage jobs
• More productivity and innovation
• Development of local suppliers
• Diversification of the economy
• Stronger exports

Moving up the value chain helps countries earn more money from their natural resources, but it also provides an outlet for sustainable growth that isn’t as subject to swings in commodity prices.

Countries that develop their manufacturing sectors provide their citizens with more opportunities and upward mobility.

Special Economic Zones

Special economic zones (SEZ) provide parks and facilities where businesses can operate under customs, regulations, and structures designed to promote investment and exports.

Special economic zones frequently offer:

• Tax incentives
• Customs efficiency
• Efficient permitting
• Modern infrastructure

Better access to ports or other transportation

Special economic zones make it easier for companies to operate, which encourages more investment in the countries and begins to jumpstart industrialization.

“In today’s hyper-connected world, industrial competitiveness depends not only on costs but also on efficiency.” – Manjiv P. Singh

Countries such as China have built entire industries within SEZs. As Jeff Cheng, founder of SEZ consultancy Prime Aster, explained to American Reporter:

“China began building SEZs in the late ’80s, which attracted investment. These inflows encouraged technology transfer, enabled exports, created jobs, and helped China become the factory of the world.”

Costa Rica also used special economic zones to attract manufacturers. The Central American country successfully encouraged multinationals to invest in medical devices, life sciences, electronics, and other high-value industries.

Building Foundations for Success

China and Costa Rica offer examples that Peru and other countries can learn from. However, they also highlight that incentives alone are never enough.

Successful special economic zones require:

• Investment in education to provide workers
• Strong infrastructure
• Strategic marketing to attract investors

As long as Peru can provide the support that businesses need, special economic zones in Peru can bring investors looking to broaden production outside of China.

Why Now? Economic Zones Are Evolving in Peru

Peru is no stranger to economic zones. Previously, programs such as CETICOS existed. Later, they were replaced by Development Zones, known as ZEDs. More recently, Peru enacted reforms to allow for more private-sector led economic zones. The government has taken steps to make it easier for investors and companies to develop their zones.

American Reporter recently reported:

“Designed under public-private principles, promoters have more flexibility in selecting a legal structure and business model. Zone promoters can now be constituted as limited liability companies,” explains Bosshard.

Economic zones have been in Peru for years. Now they’re adapting to fit the needs of today’s investors.

Private Economic Zones are Here

Increased private-sector participation in special economic zones is a worldwide trend. Private economic zones are becoming more common for several reasons:

• Privately built zones often have infrastructure available faster.
• Private companies allow for professional park management.
• Privately developed zones operate under market-driven investment strategies.

This means that special economic zones in Peru have the potential to attract investors as they have companies that want to develop zones tailor-made for their needs.

Time to Double Down on a Competitive Advantage

Peru has many attractive qualities that can help it successfully encourage exports through special economic zones.

Locational Advantages

Situated on the Pacific Coast, Peru is primed to engage in trade with North America and Latin America while also having easy access to Asia.

Peru has invested in ports, logistics, and other transportation infrastructure to help support exporters.

Free Trade Agreements

Not only does Peru border Latin America and the Pacific, but its network of free trade agreements is also one of the most robust in Latin America. For those looking to access new markets, producing in Peru can give companies an edge.

Natural Resources

Peru has plenty of natural resources, including minerals, agricultural products, and more. Rather than exporting these raw materials, special economic zones in Peru can help companies move further down the value chain and produce finished goods.

Economic Stability

Peru also has the advantage of macroeconomic stability. When investors choose a country to invest in, they value stability and certainty.

Encouraging Manufacturing Industries

While Peru has many advantages, there are still areas of concern that need to be addressed if the country wants to capitalize on manufacturers looking for somewhere new to produce.

Infrastructure

Logistics, transportation, and even utilities will need to keep up with increased production.

Workers

Peru also needs to make sure it has workers that are trained to meet the needs of today’s advanced manufacturing. That means investing in education. Peru could also benefit from creating vocational training programs tailored to the needs of companies investing in special economic zones.

Efficiency

Countries that make it easy to do business win. Investors don’t want to spend years waiting for permits and licenses to start production. Simplifying processes and ensuring companies can predictably navigate investment requirements will be important to Peru remaining competitive.

Peru is not the only country trying to attract manufacturers. Regions like Asia are heavily promoting their own economies. To stand out from the crowd, Peru needs to understand its strengths and continue investing in them.

Opportunity Industries

With all that being said, what industries are most likely to take advantage of special economic zones in Peru? Here are few industries that have prospects  of succeeding.

Advanced Manufacturing

Anything technology-related could do well in Peru from electronics to automation to manufacturing equipment.

Medical Devices

Can Peru follow in the footsteps of Costa Rica? Only time will tell. But there is opportunity for Peru to encourage growth in medical technology production.

Agribusiness

Thousands of acres of farmland are devoted to agriculture in Peru. Why not begin producing more finished goods domestically?

Mining Equipment and Services

Mining is a large part of Peru’s economy. Given the demand for mining equipment and technology, perhaps some of those items could be produced in Peru.

Renewable Energy and Clean Technology

More and more companies are making sustainable products. Peru could position itself as a prime location to manufacture these products.

Jobs and Economic Growth

When done right, special economic zones in Peru can provide more jobs for citizens. They also allow countries to diversify their exports.

Economic zones can:

• Attract foreign direct investment
• Create better jobs
• Support local businesses
• Increase exports
• Support innovation and technology
• Grow other regions outside of Lima
• Lead to government revenue generated by increased economic activity.

Growth breeds opportunity. Industrial parks can become a source of continuous innovation as companies work to provide the best product at the best price.

Looking Beyond the Tax Breaks

Tax incentives don’t develop industries. They’re just one piece of the puzzle. Countries need stable infrastructure and capable workers, and they need to market themselves to potential investors.

Building an industrial park takes years, but the benefits could be felt for generations.

Special Economic Zones Can Help Lead the Charge

There is no silver bullet for economic growth, but special economic zones in Peru can provide a great start. By encouraging investment and production in target industries, Peru can develop a more robust and diversified economy.

Opening of company offices highlights the need for investment in Chile & Entrepreneurship

Encouraging news for companies, entrepreneurs, and workers in Chile: The downturn in economic activity and rising unemployment have caught the attention of international companies looking to invest in Chile. Recently, doTERRA Latam announced that it would be opening new company offices in Santiago. Foreign direct investment like this helps provide momentum and confidence in the Chilean economy.

Investment in Chile and Foreign Companies Optimistic About the Economy

“This inward investment not only provides jobs but can also increase innovation and entrepreneurship.”

Economy Experts

Opening new offices gives hope to Chileans searching for income opportunities. Opening new business locations in Chile is just one way that foreign direct investment can lead to job creation. Here’s why the latest announcement matters:

COVID Crisis Affects the Chilean Economy

While Chile continues recovering from the long-term effects of the pandemic crisis, local experts say more progress is needed to improve living standards and boost employment rates. Recent figures from the Chilean government show:

• The national unemployment rate reached 9.1% between February and April 2026
• The female unemployment rate reached 10%
• The informal labor market rate reached 26.5%
• Impact Economic Activity Index decreased by -1.2% in April.
• Mining activity decreased by 11.8%.
• Gross domestic product fell by 0.5% during the first quarter.

Rates like these motivate government officials and policymakers to support entrepreneurship and seek foreign investment. This way, workers can seek alternative sources of income while traditional companies continue searching for Chilean workers. While jobs are the typical solution, entrepreneurship can allow workers to become self-employed and develop their businesses with minimal start-up costs.

Company to Invest in Chile Continues Expansion

DoTerra is one of many household names looking to grow its footprint in Latin America and the surrounding regions. The company specializes in products and essential oils with therapeutic-grade quality. With offices in over 100 countries worldwide, doTERRA has been busy developing its international entrepreneurship model for years.

Here’s what we know about the company’s expansion into Latin America:

• The company plans to invest over US$1 million in LATAM and related markets.
• New company offices to be opened in Chile.
• The company plans to expand into Costa Rica.
• The company will continue operations in Guatemala.
• New operations will begin in Mexico.
• The company will continue expansion efforts in Colombia.

doTERRA has strategically placed Chile in its queue for international expansion. The South American country has been recognized for its strong business stability, reliable institutions, and commitment to international trade. With the office opening in Santiago, entrepreneurs and distributors gain access to a new market interested in health, wellness, and lifestyle.

Investment in Chile: Entrepreneurship Creates Economic Opportunities

When doTERRA expands to a country like Chile, entrepreneurship becomes possible for everyday citizens. Traditional job hiring requires companies to set a fixed budget for employee payroll. DoTerra, however, allows individuals to become independent entrepreneurs with little start-up costs.

Entrepreneurial opportunities for workers include:

• Flexibility
• Possible Side Income
• Become Self-Employed
• Work From Home
• Owning Your Own Business

While some people may choose this pathway as an alternative to working at doTERRA, others may see entrepreneurship as a pathway to supplement existing jobs. The world of work is changing, and many employees desire flexibility in their schedules. Whether that be to spend more time with family, go back to school, or start a side hustle, entrepreneurship can allow people to do just that.

Why Companies Continue to Invest in Chile

Investment in Chile becomes even more attractive when considering doTERRA’s arrival. Chile kicked off 2026 with approximately US$1.815 billion in foreign direct investment. That’s a 164% increase from prior years!

Companies continue to invest in Chile for reasons such as:

• Political Stability
• Strong Institutions
• Location (Gateway to South America)
• Skilled labor force.

Open for Business

Chile continues to welcome international trade and investment. As a result, many companies seek to grow their operations inside the country.

“In the long run, investors don’t care about cycles. They care about fundamentals.”

Because this investment comes at a time of economic slowdown, companies like doTERRA help provide momentum and confidence in Chile.

Investing in the Communities of Chile

While some companies seek to expand into Chile for economic advantages, doTERRA provides platforms focused on sustainability.

Healing Hands Foundation, as well as Co-IMPACT sourcing, both allow entrepreneurs to focus on sustainability when developing their businesses. Here are two ways doTERRA encourages entrepreneurs to invest back into Chile.

• CO Impacts sourcing
• Healing Hands Foundation

Programs like this allow entrepreneurs to develop sustainable supply chains while investing in Chile’s communities. Businesses have the opportunity to give back to Chile in a way that matters to them.

Investment in Chile Creates Confidence

Investment in Chile helps provide jobs, strengthens the economy, and offers entrepreneurs opportunities to develop their business. While foreign investment doesn’t fix Chile’s economic struggles, it does provide confidence in the future. As Chile continues to recover from both the pandemic and the affordability crisis, companies like doTERRA choose to invest millions of dollars into the country.

Conclusion

For entrepreneurs looking to reach international markets and work remotely, opportunities like these become especially exciting. Investment in Chile not only provides jobs for workers but also creates opportunities for entrepreneurship and innovation. As Chile’s economy faces low growth, continued investment provides confidence in Chile’s long-term prosperity.

Multiple French investors recently visited the South American nation to learn more about business opportunities in strategic sectors in Ecuador.

Ecuador continues to attract European investors who view the country as a stable destination for foreign direct investment (FDI). Recently, representatives from Ecuador met with a delegation of French business leaders to discuss investment opportunities related to innovation, economic growth, sustainability, and other priorities.

The visit consisted of an investment seminar in which Ecuador provided an overview of opportunities for potential investors.

The South American nation will continue to welcome European businesses interested in learning more about investing in strategic sectors in Ecuador. French companies interested in Latin America should evaluate the strengths of Ecuador’s economy, which offers investors a wide range of opportunities for growth and partnership.

Overview of the Ecuador-France Investment Seminar

The recently held seminar was led by Ecuador’s Minister of Production, Foreign Trade, and Investment, Luis Alberto Jaramillo, who delivered a presentation on Ecuador’s business environment and opportunities for private-sector investment in strategic sectors in Ecuador. French companies and organizations attending the event included the Movement of Enterprises of France (Medef).

“The meeting is part of an investment mission carried out by French companies…It is an opportunity to strengthen ties with France and Ecuador by identifying sectors of mutual interest,” according to a joint statement from officials associated with the meeting.

The meeting was part of an investment mission sponsored by several organizations, including the Embassy of Ecuador in France, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility of Ecuador, the Ministry of Production, Foreign Trade and Investment of Ecuador, Pro Ecuador Commercial Office in Paris, and the Movement of Enterprises of France.

About the Investors

The visit by Medef and other French businesses signifies increased European confidence in Ecuador’s economy and opportunities within strategic sectors in Ecuador poised for expansion.

Medef is a prominent French business organization and played a leading role in organizing the investment mission to Ecuador. As French businesses continue to explore opportunities in Latin America, Ecuador stands out as a strong choice for companies looking to expand their operations.

Opportunities in Ecuador’s Strategic Industries

Ecuador introduced French investors to business opportunities spread across nine key sectors. Strategic sectors in Ecuador include:

Infrastructure

Investment in Ecuador’s infrastructure is one of the many ways companies can contribute to future competitiveness. Investments in projects related to public works, transport, logistics, and urban infrastructure were specifically mentioned.

Mobility

Decarbonization is a major global priority, and Ecuador incentivizes projects focused on clean mobility. Investors can explore opportunities in electric transportation, sustainable transit, and other mobility solutions.

Water

Investment opportunities related to water were discussed during the seminar, with officials highlighting projects related to water treatment and distribution as priorities.

Energy

In addition to traditional sources of energy, Ecuador also provides opportunities related to renewable energy production and other projects that support the growth of Ecuador’s energy matrix.

Telecommunications

Investment in telecommunications was mentioned as a means of expanding connectivity, especially in rural areas. Other sectors mentioned during the seminar included:

• Digital infrastructure
• Projects related to industrial production

French businesses with an interest in any of these strategic sectors in Ecuador should explore the incentives and benefits available to investors.

Supporting Investors and Investments in Ecuador

In addition to discussing specific industries with investors, Ecuador’s Minister of Production, Foreign Trade, and Investment also highlighted various financial tools available to facilitate investment in the country. Programs mentioned during the seminar included:

• Concessions and preferential financing
• International guarantee programs
• Financing through public sector mechanisms that do not strain Ecuador’s fiscal budget
• Tax deduction incentives for green production projects

Officials highlighted Ecuador’s tax deduction incentives for green production projects. Through these incentives, Ecuador hopes to encourage investment in projects that align with national efforts to drive sustainability and ecological transition.

The incentives are especially attractive to European companies because many make investment decisions with ESG factors in mind. By offering benefits to investors that align with ESG priorities, Ecuador makes its strategic sectors more attractive to companies that might not have otherwise considered the country.

Foreign Investment Can Help Ecuador Grow

The investment seminar also allowed officials to promote collaborations that can help strategic sectors in Ecuador achieve their goals. Opportunities for collaboration mentioned during the seminar included:

• Technology transfer
• Manufacturing
• Technical skill training
• Cybersecurity training

European investors have the opportunity to share their knowledge and expertise with Ecuador by engaging with these strategic sectors. Foreign investors can also take advantage of various incentives available to them in the country.

A framework for stronger investment in Ecuador

In addition to the meeting with French businesses, Ecuador recently concluded negotiations for the EU- Ecuador Sustainable Investment Facilitation Agreement (SIFA).

Negotiations for the SIFA were recently concluded. The agreement, which was reached between Ecuador and the European Union, will make it easier for businesses to invest in Ecuador by improving rules around investment and prioritizing sustainability.

By improving transparency, simplifying procedures, and facilitating sustainable investment, the SIFA will improve the investment climate in strategic sectors in Ecuador.

The sectors expected to benefit from the EU-Ecuador SIFA include:

• High-tech industries
• Infrastructure projects
• Defense
• Sustainable development projects

SIFA improves the investment climate in Ecuador at a key moment for the country. By strengthening the investor framework and emphasizing sustainability, Ecuador is well positioned to attract additional FDI.

What’s Next?

While meetings like these are an important step in strengthening bilateral ties, they are only the beginning of what will become longer-term relationships between France and Ecuador.

Following the seminar, investors from France will continue their meetings in Ecuador. During these meetings, investors will have the opportunity to hold working sessions with Ecuadorian government agencies to continue discussions about specific investment projects in strategic sectors in Ecuador.

By pursuing projects with Ecuadorian businesses, French investors can take the opportunity to further strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

Sea Change in Latin America

One nation that is beginning a new chapter economically is Peru. A massive push for Peruvian port modernization has begun. These public and private partnership projects will play a key role in the nation’s future trade growth.

Port Modernization Drives Peru Forward

Peru has decided that, in order to keep up with international trade, it would need to modernize its ports. Recognizing this need, the country has made it a national objective to improve its position within the Pacific Rim by expanding its ports. Public and private partnerships have allowed Peru to move forward with its plans by allowing the private sector to operate ports while maintaining state ownership of the facilities.

Peru’s access to the Pacific Ocean gives it many benefits when it comes to international trade. The country has historically relied on seaborne transportation to ship:

• Mining exports
• Manufactured goods
• Agricultural commodities
• Fish

Today, Peru continues to rely on shipping as a method of transportation for trading goods. As the volume of imports and exports increases, Peru has recognized that it will need updated and modern ports to handle the additional traffic.

“The single biggest factor that determines how competitive a country will be in international trade is logistics.”

Having inefficient ports creates congestion and bottlenecks in the transportation of goods. Peru has come to understand that by modernizing its ports, it can help its economy grow and develop through international trade.

Public-Private Partnerships

Private investment in Peru has allowed thousands of dollars to be funneled into Peruvian port modernization. With multiple projects either underway or in the planning stages, Peru is looking toward the future to expand its economy.

Why are public-private partnerships so important?

Public-Private Partnerships are allowing Peru to modernize its infrastructure while giving control of it to the private sector. By using PPP’s Peru can:

• Attract private investment
• Delegates control and operation to the private sector
• Increase efficiency in long term operations
• Allow the state to maintain ownership of the ports

Billions of dollars have been invested in Peruvian port modernization. These ports serve as drivers for the economy, allowing for imports to come into the country as well as exports to leave. Peru recognizes the importance of ports to international trade, which is why it is making it a priority to modernize its outdated ports.

Ports of the Future

One of the most important ports for Peru is the port of Callao. The Port of Callao is responsible for most of Peru’s containerized cargo. Once complete, Peru hopes to double the capacity of cargo that Callao can handle.

Callao Could Handle Up to 4.5 Million TEUs by 2036

With plans to expand Callao’s capabilities, Peru could see upwards of 4.5 million TEUs by 2036. Just improving Callao will have a huge impact on Peru’s trade with other countries.

With the increase of imports and exports comes more job opportunities in warehousing, distribution, and transportation. Peruvian port modernization is allowing the country to improve its image in international trade by upgrading its ports.

Ports are becoming more than just places to transport goods. They are becoming crucial parts of the nation’s international trade.

Peru’s General San Martín Port Terminal

In Paracas, Peru, the General San Martín port terminal is another port that is being upgraded. This port serves as an important hub for businesses in the area. With the improvement of this port comes even more opportunity for growth in industries like tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing.

General San Martín isn’t the only port that Peru has been working on to improve. In Pisco, a terminal port that mainly serves the southern parts of Peru, is being modernized. Peru’s southern international terminal, better known as Tisur is another one of the nation’s ports that have been improved to allow for easier and more efficient travel of goods in and out of the country.

The Port of Chancay

Foreign investors are taking an interest in the country by investing billions in Peruvian port modernization. The most notable of these investors is China, and its newly built Chancay port. China is building Chancay to serve as another port of export for Peru. The port of Chancay will be important for Peru’s future because of its prime location for trade with Asia.

Peru faces many opportunities for trade with Asian markets. By lessening the distance needed for ships to travel from the Americas to Asia, Peru will see:

• Decreased travel times
• Lower costs of transportation
• Improved trade efficiency
• More opportunities for trade with Asian markets.

Peru Still Has Room to Improve

Peru still has a long way to go when it comes to its port infrastructure and logistics. Once the ships make it to port, they can encounter many problems with transportation. If ports are able to efficiently move goods from the port to nearby cities, there can be issues with traffic, limited access to multimodal transport options, and more.

Digitalization will play another huge factor in Peru’s ability to succeed in its Peruvian port modernization goal. Many ports around the world are starting to become automated and digitized. By allowing for improvements in these areas, Peru can:

• Reduce waiting time for cargo
• Increase visibility for supply chains
• Improve communication between ports and shipping companies
• Improve logistics

Peru will need to focus on improving its ports’ digitalization as well as their transportation if the country wants to see increased success in international trade.

Peru Looks to the Future

The future of Peru’s ports looks very bright. As it finishes current projects and starts new ones, Peru is looking toward the future. With improved infrastructure for international trade comes regulatory improvements. Improving laws and regulations of how things are imported and exported will benefit Peru because doing so:

• Attracts more foreign investors
• Reduces the time projects take to complete
• Improves international relationships
• Promotes smoother operations

Peruvian port modernization opens up opportunities for international trade. With more imports and exports comes an increase in production for businesses within the country. Peruvian ports bring many construction jobs to the country and will continue to do so as ports are upgraded. All of these factors will contribute to Peru’s economic growth within the next few decades.

Peru has the potential to be one of the leading logistics and maritime countries in Latin America. With improvements to its ports, the country is looking toward the future and continuing to develop trade relationships with other countries.

If Peru can modernize its ports and improve its digitalization and transportation infrastructure, it can become a leading port for South America, connecting the country to the rest of the world.

“Ports aren’t just the gateway for trade. They are trade.”