In recent years, nearshoring has emerged as a critical trend in global trade, driven in part by the pandemic. While much of the focus has been on Mexico due to its proximity to the United States, other Latin American countries such as Brazil, Chile, and Colombia also position themselves as attractive destinations for foreign investment in Latin America. According to JLL Global Consulting Services, the trend of nearshoring requires the development of hubs that offer logistical advantages and favorable economic and business conditions. These emerging markets could reshape the nearshoring landscape in Latin American foreign investment.

Mexico: The Main Beneficiary of Nearshoring

Nearshoring, a business strategy in which companies move production closer to their home countries, has significantly benefited Mexico. The country’s proximity to the U.S. and deep integration into North American logistics and manufacturing make it a prime destination for nearshoring initiatives. According to a JLL study, “Mexico has been the main beneficiary, placing its cities in a league of their own compared to other Latin American countries and Southeast Asia.”

Mexico’s strategic location, large economy, and established infrastructure make it a strong candidate for companies seeking to optimize their supply chains. The country acts as a hub for exports and a robust internal market. In addition to its manufacturing capacity, Mexico offers the advantage of cultural and economic alignment with the U.S., further enhancing its role as a nearshoring destination. However, Mexico is not the only Latin American country that can benefit from foreign investment in Latin America.

Brazil: The South American Giant

Due to its size, population, and economic prowess, Brazil is often called a continent within a continent. As the largest economy in Latin America, Brazil boasts a strong logistics network, a vast labor market, and a history of manufacturing. It has long been a global player in the agriculture, automotive, and technology sectors and is increasingly seen as a prime candidate for foreign investment in Latin America.

JLL’s analysis highlights Brazil’s potential, noting that nearshoring could boost its manufacturing exports by billions of dollars. However, given the country’s already well-established industrial base, the overall impact on its exports may not be as dramatic as in other countries. São Paulo, the country’s financial and industrial hub, is singled out as a critical destination for Latin American foreign investment. The city’s track record in attracting international businesses, strong logistics performance, and highly skilled labor force make it a pivotal player in Brazil’s nearshoring prospects.

Moreover, Brazil’s size and infrastructure development are significant advantages. In recent years, the country has invested heavily in transportation, ports, and highways, positioning itself as a logistics powerhouse in the region. Its role in global trade, particularly in the agricultural and manufacturing sectors, further underscores Brazil’s importance in foreign investment in Latin America.

Colombia: A Growing Industrial Base

While Colombia’s economy has traditionally been more focused on raw materials, the nearshoring trend offers the country an opportunity to diversify and expand its industrial base. According to JLL, Colombia could leverage nearshoring to create thousands of jobs in manufacturing, logistics, and administrative services, thus enhancing its role in foreign investment in Latin America.

Colombia can potentially attract significant foreign investment in Latin America, particularly in cities like Bogotá and Medellín. These urban centers benefit from a well-qualified labor force, competitive operating costs, and improving infrastructure. Bogotá, the country’s capital, is emerging as a business hub, with many multinational companies operating in the city. Medellín, once known for its turbulent past, has transformed into a center of innovation, technology, and manufacturing.

Colombia’s currency devaluation against the U.S. dollar also makes the country an attractive destination for Latin American foreign investment. Lower wages and a relatively skilled labor force provide cost advantages that can help international businesses reduce operational expenses. As Colombia continues to improve its business environment, it is likely to see increased interest from companies looking to nearshore their operations.

Chile: A Stable Business Environment

Chile has long been recognized for its political and economic stability, making it a prime destination for foreign investment in Latin America. JLL’s study points out that Chile offers one of Latin America’s most favorable business environments thanks to its transparency, low credit risk, and streamlined business procedures. The country’s commitment to democracy, rule of law, and fiscal responsibility has made it an attractive market for international companies.

Chile’s small but highly educated population and its reputation for transparency and good governance enhance its appeal as a nearshoring destination. The country is known for its ease of doing business and offers investors a clear legal framework, competitive tax incentives, and access to a stable economy. These factors position Chile as a strategic hub for companies looking to serve both Latin American and global markets through foreign investment in Latin America.

Conclusion: A Diversified Nearshoring Landscape

While Mexico remains the primary beneficiary of nearshoring, other Latin American countries such as Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Costa Rica increasingly position themselves as attractive destinations for foreign investment in Latin America. Each country offers unique advantages, from Brazil’s economic scale and logistics potential to Chile’s stability and transparency, Colombia’s growing industrial base, and Costa Rica’s dynamic business ecosystem.

As nearshoring continues to evolve, these countries will likely see increased interest from companies looking to optimize their supply chains, reduce costs, and tap into new markets. By investing in infrastructure, improving business environments, and offering competitive incentives, Latin American nations can further strengthen their positions in the global landscape of Latin American foreign investment.

Central America, a region known for its unique and diverse beverage industry, has seen the rise of iconic brands. With its distinctive flavors and innovative products, this sector has won awards and the hearts and palates of discerning consumers.

The region’s beverage industry in Central America is vast, with standout products such as multi-award-winning rums. These century-old beers have earned accolades in global competitions, sodas that evoke nostalgia among consumers with flavors reminiscent of their childhood, and a new generation of innovative beverages.

The Central American beverage industry is not just about drinks; it’s about economics. Over the past two decades, it has experienced significant dynamism and continues to rise. It generates foreign exchange, is a major driver of employment, and has become a source of national pride.

The beverage industry in Central America is not just about what’s in the bottle; it’s about people. Julio César Orozco, Executive Director of the Food and Beverage Guild of Guatemala (GREMAB), explains that in Guatemala, the industry’s economic impact goes beyond its contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Thanks to its evolution in recent years, it has become a significant employment engine, providing jobs and livelihoods to many.

The beverage industry in Central America is not just about taste; it’s about jobs. According to an economic impact and footprint study conducted by GREMAB, the manufacturing sector generates more than 440,000 direct jobs, an increase of nearly 60,000 over the past decade. This is comparable to the services sector and exceeds the finance, telecommunications, and real estate industries. It’s not just about what’s in the bottle; it’s about the people behind it.

Guatemala, the home market for highly recognized and successful regional and global brands such as Zacapa (rum) and Gallo (beer), also boasts a diverse range of other industry players. With their unique offerings and unwavering commitment to quality, these players stand out in the global market.

According to the Bank of Guatemala (Banguat) figures, the food and beverage industry contributes approximately US$5.63 billion annually. Orozco notes that this represents 6.65% of GDP. “Regarding the specific non-alcoholic beverage subsector, it is estimated to contribute 11% of the total food and beverage sector.”

El Salvador: Resilience and Innovation

Karla Domínguez, Industrial Intelligence Manager at the Salvadoran Association of Industrialists (ASI), explains that the beverage industry in Central America is broad and can be grouped into two main categories: non-alcoholic beverages (such as refreshing drinks, pure water, carbonated drinks, fruit juices, coffee derivatives, among others) and alcoholic beverages, which include wines, liquors, and beers.

El Salvador is home to brands with significant consumer recognition, such as the soda Kolashanpan. In recent years, however, the sector has gained new strength, developing a product offering that includes juices and rums, thanks to business groups that have invested in the sector’s growth and sophistication.

“Today, you can walk into a supermarket and see a variety of beverages produced in El Salvador, tailored to all ages and tastes, addressing nutritional needs. But this has required significant investments in cutting-edge technology to preserve flavors and maintain the consistency of the liquid, adopt more environmentally friendly practices in production processes, and promote a healthier lifestyle,” said Domínguez.

The researcher highlights that many local brands have been creative in generating specific flavors and rethinking their packaging with innovative designs and labels that emphasize aspects of the country and appeal to national identity.

Domínguez adds that in El Salvador, the Central American beverage industry has managed to integrate into national and international markets due to its resilience. This quality has allowed it to overcome disruptive events like the COVID-19 pandemic and inflationary pressures, which present significant challenges for businesses in the sector. They also face a market that is not static and demands new product offerings and quality qualities.

“It is evident that there is a new generation of consumers (…) Flavors, consistency, preparation formulas, and the creativity of the presentation of these products are essential,” she notes. Domínguez adds that Salvadoran offerings generally stand out for telling a story or highlighting a sense of identity, underscoring the need for strategic alliances to continue innovating in processes, safety, and flavors.

According to ASI data, El Salvador’s beverage production reaches more than 25 destinations worldwide and shows an upward trend. “In the last five years, from 2019 to 2023, the sector posted an average annual growth of 6.4% in exports,” said Domínguez.

The specialist praised the sector’s performance despite the global context. Companies like Beliv, a subsidiary of the multilateral CBC, operate in El Salvador. Beliv’s portfolio includes well-known regional brands like Petit and key players like La Constancia (an AB InBev subsidiary), which produces iconic brands such as Pilsener.

Domínguez described the beverage industry in Central America as dynamic. Its characteristics facilitate links with other industries since it involves sectors such as plastics, paper and cardboard, and graphic arts.

Costa Rica: New Opportunities

According to an analysis by the Costa Rican Foreign Trade Promotion Agency (Procomer), the beverage industry in Central America is constantly evolving, and 2024 will witness its reinvention and innovation.

“The beverage segment is known to be one of the most active in global launches and innovations,” says a report published this year.

Procomer’s analysis emphasizes that companies must recognize innovation as a key strategy for successfully entering international markets.

Between 2018 and 2022, Costa Rica’s beverage industry in Central America maintained an average annual growth of 6%. Panama was the leading destination for these exports (accounting for 51%), followed by Nicaragua (25%), Guatemala (5%), and the United Kingdom (5%).

One of the key players in Costa Rica is FIFCO, a company operating in 13 markets and owner of relevant brands such as Imperial and Bavaria beers. In recent years, the company has evolved and explored new niches, such as flavored alcoholic beverages, a popular offering among new generations but not the only one.

Procomer’s study highlights that the Central American beverage industry is constantly evolving and that 2024 “promises to witness a series of innovations.”

It cites the popularization of kombucha, known for its health benefits and variety of flavors, as an example.

According to data from the international consulting firm Nielsen, cited by Procomer, the non-alcoholic beverage category is also one of the fastest-growing segments for adult consumers. “This could signal a growing demand in international markets for these alternatives (non-alcoholic beverages), which could benefit Costa Rican exporters able to meet this demand,” notes a report from the entity.

The agency’s analysis adds that this results from a trend where modern consumers are more concerned about what they put into their bodies and prioritize health. Non-alcoholic beverages made with clean, natural ingredients appeal to international markets, presenting opportunities for Costa Rican producers focusing on sustainable and organic production.

Challenges Ahead

Julio César Orozco adds that the beverage industry in Central America generally faces challenges related to infrastructure development, regulatory stability, and inflationary trends.

Domínguez from ASI shares this view, adding that vulnerabilities affect not just the beverage industry in Central America but the world as a whole.

“Disruptions in the supply chain and the rising costs of raw materials and capital goods due to the current situation have caused price increases. Likewise, since much of the sector’s products are sold internationally, additional effects are being analyzed, such as in the United States, where domestic consumption is slowing due to economic conditions,” she said.

Orozco emphasizes that while significant challenges exist, good commercial opportunities are also on the horizon.

“A key factor that continues to drive the beverage industry in Central America is Guatemala’s solid network of trade relations and agreements with countries and commercial partners, especially in the Central American region. These agreements have helped establish clear and technical rules, facilitating smooth and consistent trade.

The sector is confident that we can continue strengthening these agreements and rules to foster sustainable long-term growth,” he said.

Domínguez, for her part, believes that as international regulations related to the consumption of these products advance, the beverage industry in Central America is also progressing in its commitment to a healthy lifestyle.

“Many aspects are more related to raising awareness and recognizing that different demographic groups and regions have varying consumption patterns, which also align with the consumers’ health conditions and lifestyles,” she concludes.

In conclusion, the beverage industry in Central America stands as a testament to the region’s rich tradition and innovative spirit. From the esteemed rums of Guatemala to El Salvador’s evolving soda and juice market and Costa Rica’s dynamic sector poised for new opportunities, the industry showcases a blend of heritage and modernity. Despite facing challenges such as infrastructure development, regulatory stability, and inflationary pressures, the sector’s resilience and adaptability highlight its potential for continued growth. As Central American companies embrace innovation, sustainability, and strategic trade relationships, they are well-positioned to meet regional and international demands. The future of the beverage industry in Central America promises to be vibrant and transformative, driven by a commitment to quality, creativity, and consumer satisfaction.

The global rating agency Standard & Poor’s (S&P) recently highlighted the historic Dominican Republic’s economic growth, praising the nation’s stability and solid macroeconomic fundamentals. These factors have allowed the country to make substantial strides in various sectors. The Central Bank of the Dominican Republic (BCRD) released a statement confirming S&P’s upbeat assessment, emphasizing the nation’s resilience and capacity to sustain the country’s economic growth despite external challenges.

The evaluations were shared during a meeting between Héctor Valdez Albizu, Governor of the BCRD, and María José Martínez, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Finance, who met with representatives from Standard & Poor’s to discuss the Dominican Republic’s economic growth, performance, and projections.

GOVERNOR EXPLAINS ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE

At the meeting, Governor Valdez Albizu provided a comprehensive overview of the Dominican economy’s performance in recent years. He outlined the nation’s strong fundamentals, which have supported sustained growth and improved macroeconomic stability.

Valdez Albizu shared optimistic projections for the remainder of 2024. Foreign exchange earnings are expected to exceed USD 42 billion, driven by key industries such as tourism, which is forecast to generate USD 10.5 billion in revenue. Remittances are also expected to contribute another USD 10.5 billion, reflecting the strong ties between the Dominican diaspora and their families back home.

Another central growth area is the free trade zones (FTZ), which have become critical hubs for export-oriented industries. The governor projected that FTZ exports would surpass USD 8.4 billion in 2024, supported by increased demand for Dominican goods, particularly textiles, electronics, and agricultural products. Additionally, foreign direct investment (FDI) is expected to remain robust, with projections indicating that it will generate over USD 4.5 billion by year-end, underscoring the Dominican Republic’s attractiveness as a destination for international investors and contributing to its economic growth.

AVERAGE GROWTH WAS 5.0% YEAR-ON-YEAR

The Dominican Republic’s economic activity has remained solid despite global economic uncertainties. According to Valdez Albizu, Dominican Republic economic growth averaged 5.0% year-on-year during the first seven months of 2024, a pace that reflects the economy’s resilience and ability to maintain momentum close to its potential. The economy expanded by 4.8% in July alone, which reinforces expectations that Dominican Republic economic growth will remain strong throughout the year.

In terms of projections, the Central Bank expects the economy to expand by around 5.0% in 2024, positioning the Dominican Republic as one of the fastest-growing economies in Latin America. This growth is partly driven by the government’s proactive economic policies, which aim to stimulate key sectors such as tourism, construction, manufacturing, and renewable energy. As Valdez Albizu noted, the country’s ability to sustain growth in a region marked by economic volatility is a testament to its solid fundamentals and Dominican Republic economic growth strategies.

LABOR MARKET PERFORMANCE AND JOB CREATION

One of the central pillars of the Dominican Republic’s economic growth has been its ability to create jobs and reduce unemployment. Valdez Albizu reported that the employed population in the country exceeded 5 million workers in the second quarter of 2024, representing a significant increase of 239,000 jobs compared to the same period last year. This expansion has notably impacted the nation’s unemployment rate, which fell from 5.6% to 5.3% in the previous 12 months.

Job creation has been solid in tourism, construction, and manufacturing sectors. The government has implemented initiatives to incentivize businesses to hire locally while investing in workforce development programs to ensure Dominican workers have the skills to thrive in these industries. The result has been a significant poverty reduction, supporting domestic consumption and fueling further Dominican Republic economic growth.

TACKLING INFLATION AND MAINTAINING STABILITY

In addition to robust growth and job creation, the Dominican Republic has successfully managed inflation, a key concern for many emerging markets. Valdez Albizu noted that year-on-year inflation has remained within the Central Bank’s target range of 4% ± 1% for over a year, with inflation currently standing at 3.54% as of July 2024. This stability has been achieved through the coordinated implementation of monetary and fiscal policies designed to keep inflationary pressures under control, which further supported Dominican Republic economic growth.

One key factor in this success has been the Central Bank’s decision to reduce the monetary policy rate by 175 basis points, bringing it down to 6.75% annually. This move was part of a broader package of economic stimulus measures to support growth while keeping inflation in check. Both headline and core inflation are expected to remain within the target range for the remainder of the year, providing further reassurance to businesses and consumers alike.

INVESTMENT-FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT

Another key driver of the Dominican Republic’s economic growth has been its focus on creating an investment-friendly environment. The government has implemented various reforms to improve the business climate, reduce bureaucratic barriers, and provide incentives for foreign investors. These efforts have particularly attracted investment in renewable energy, telecommunications, and real estate sectors.

Foreign direct investment (FDI) has played a crucial role in diversifying the economy and reducing dependence on traditional agricultural sectors. The influx of FDI has spurred innovation, improved productivity, and created high-paying jobs, particularly in export-oriented industries. Additionally, the country’s strategic location in the Caribbean and its well-developed infrastructure and trade agreements have further enhanced its attractiveness as a destination for international businesses, adding momentum to the Dominican Republic’s economic growth.

LOOKING AHEAD: SUSTAINABLE GROWTH AND ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION

As the Dominican Republic looks ahead, maintaining its current growth trajectory will require a continued focus on sustainability and economic diversification. While tourism and remittances remain critical pillars of the economy, the government is committed to expanding into new areas such as renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, and technology, to sustain Dominican Republic economic growth.

By investing in human capital, the Dominican Republic can further solidify its position as one of the leading economies in Latin America, setting the foundation for long-term Dominican Republic economic growth.

In conclusion, the Dominican Republic’s economic progress is a testament to its resilience, strategic policymaking, and commitment to fostering an inclusive, diversified economy. As highlighted by Standard & Poor’s, the nation’s ability to maintain stability, encourage investment, and implement forward-looking growth strategies has positioned it as a leader in Latin America. By continuing to focus on innovation, sustainable development, and workforce enhancement, the Dominican Republic is well-poised to sustain its upward trajectory and achieve long-term Dominican Republic economic growth in an increasingly competitive global environment.