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Global attention turns to Panama as a logistics hub following recent tariff increases

Global attention turns to Panama as a logistics hub following recent tariff increases

The global trade environment changes make Panama as a logistics hub an increasingly strategic asset for global supply chains. The United States’ recent tariff hikes have unexpectedly shifted attention to the Central American country, causing U.S. and South American corporations to investigate its capabilities. The outcome? Panama has become a focal point for logistics operations as many organizations have transformed potential challenges into expansion and innovative opportunities.

Turning Tariffs into Opportunity

The United States’ trade policy revisions lead companies that depend on efficient shipping and processing centers to review their strategic approaches. Panama’s Minister of Commerce and Industries, Julio Moltó, identifies current changes as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. He points out that the revised tariff landscape where “ten percent is the new zero” demands businesses to take strategic actions to remain competitive. Panama as a logistics hub can effectively draw foreign investment and become essential in the redirected global trade networks by leveraging its natural geographic position.

The new trade dynamics allow Panama as a logistics hub to be recognized beyond its transit function by serving as a destination for goods repackaging and transshipment throughout the Americas.

U.S. and South American firms have demonstrated strategic interest in Panama

The U.S. tariff increase has created immediate impacts throughout global markets. Panamanian officials received proposals from multiple businesses based in North and South America to set up operations in Panama. Businesses now view Panama as a logistics hub—not only as a transit corridor but also as a base for extensive logistics operations.

Panama demonstrates strong logistical advantages by managing the entire production cycle from raw material processing to finished product packaging. Panama possesses some of the world’s strategic maritime and air routes, which, together with strong growth incentives, support industrial and commercial development.

Legislative Support for Regional Trade Integration

The Economic Complementation Agreement No. 76 between Panama and Mercosur (the Southern Common Market bloc of Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay) strengthens Panama as a logistics hub in the eyes of regional trade partners. The agreement, awaiting the National Assembly’s final approval, demonstrates Panama’s commitment to strengthening its trade connections across South American nations.

This initiative goes beyond simple trade liberalization. The agreement promotes business meetings and fosters regional partnerships while facilitating knowledge exchange. It represents Panama’s first move to establish itself as a superior logistics hub through operational policies that facilitate product shipment while minimizing regulatory red tape.

Engaging the Private Sector and Enhancing Infrastructure

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, together with MICI (the Ministry of Commerce and Industry) has focused on public-private partnerships to improve logistics capabilities. Authorities want to develop infrastructure projects with private sector involvement to enhance Panama’s current trade assets, including the Panama Canal, the Colón Free Trade Zone, and Tocumen International Airport.

The collaborative model will play a critical role in transforming Panama as a logistics hub. Through enhanced roads, port facilities, customs operations, and warehouse infrastructure, Panama can effectively meet international companies’ expanding needs for efficient transshipment and processing services.

Security and Quality in Export Services

Panama offers more than geographic advantage because it provides dependable service as well. Giomar González, who leads the Business Alliance for Secure Commerce (BASC) in Panama, highlighted how trust and security serve as foundational elements for logistics operations. The secure trade framework of the country supports operations from over 50 leading companies, which have exported 27,000 metric tons so far.

The successful performance of Panama confirms its status as a logistics hub that combines strategic location with regulatory compliance and operational reliability. Panama serves as an ideal location for risk-averse businesses targeting Latin American and U.S. markets because of its dual capability to meet global standards and maintain local agility.

Export Momentum: A Testament to Potential

MICI reported that Panama achieved $264.6 million in exports to the United States during 2024, with seafood as the top exported product. The data shows that Panama has established real economic participation within the realm of international commerce.

The development of Panama as a logistics hub will continue to advance through enhanced focus and investment. Panama’s diverse facilities for cold storage of perishables through to light manufacturing and assembly enable the country to transform into a comprehensive destination for export-driven companies.

Building Panama’s Global Brand

The country plans for the long-term future to establish its international reputation. Government representatives and trade authorities showcase Panama’s benefits during regional meetings and worldwide business events. The consistent message? Panama as a logistics hub already functions today while retaining substantial growth potential.

The vision stems from national pride and confidence. “It is crucial for Panamanians to recognize our country’s capabilities through our world-class hub,” González stated. Gaining internal support will become essential while Panama enters its next phase with international investors and partnerships.

Leveraging Digital Trade and Innovation

Panama is advancing digital innovation as part of its development strategy beyond physical infrastructure. The introduction of customs digitization alongside blockchain-based cargo tracking systems and AI-powered logistics solutions aims to enhance operational efficiency while providing greater transparency.

With global dependence on smart logistics increasing, Panama must keep updating its logistics hub functions. These technologies will enhance trade speed and supply chain optimization through the data insights global companies depend upon.

A Promising Path Forward

The recent tariff changes by the United States have catalyzed a wider realization: A nation’s geographic advantage combined with solid policy frameworks and active private sector partnerships can transform its position within worldwide trade systems. Panama is seizing this moment.

Panama uses legislative measures, along with new infrastructure investments, secure export systems, and technology advancements to position itself as a logistics hub. Panama stands at a pivotal moment where its strategic positioning and growing capabilities transform it from the Americas’ crossroads into the central hub of worldwide trade operations.

The Bright Future of Franchises in Peru: A US$1.3 Billion Milestone by 2025

The Bright Future of Franchises in Peru: A US$1.3 Billion Milestone by 2025

Franchises in Peru: A Booming Sector in a Rebounding Economy

The franchise sector in Peru is currently undergoing significant changes and developments. Franchises in Peru, which used to be a small part of the national economy, now demonstrate strong growth with expectations to reach US$1.3 billion in revenue by 2025. The extraordinary expansion of the franchise sector in Peru illustrates not only economic recovery but also deeper transformations through entrepreneurial activities and international investments which redefine the Peruvian market.

Analysts predict franchises in Peru will maintain strong growth annually in the range of 6.2% to 7.5%. Peru has established itself as one of Latin America’s premier franchise markets due to its growing appeal to domestic entrepreneurs and multinational brands who seek to enter its fast-evolving economy.

Gastronomy Leading the Charge

The primary driver of this expansion is Peru’s celebrated culinary reputation. The food and beverage industry represents 68% of all active franchise brands nationwide, while taking advantage of the country’s esteemed culinary reputation. Both local residents and international visitors find Peruvian cuisine irresistible, from classic dishes like ceviche and lomo saltado to innovative fusion and fast-casual options.

The prominent position of gastronomy in Peru’s franchise market happened for specific reasons. The fusion of deep-rooted cultural traditions with continuous innovation establishes the ideal foundation for developing franchises in Peru as scalable and recognizable brands. More restaurateurs adopt franchising to grow their businesses while preserving quality and reaching new cities and global markets.

Diversification Driving Regional Growth

Though gastronomy maintains its leadership position, other sectors have begun to establish their presence in the market. The franchise sector in Peru is experiencing steady growth in education services, along with beauty and wellness enterprises and artisanal crafts businesses. Diversification plays an essential role in building economic systems that can withstand challenges. The initiative enables multiple entrepreneurial pathways while simultaneously driving job creation and economic investment in regions that were previously neglected.

The expansion of franchises in Peru aids in spreading economic activities beyond a central area. Lima still serves as the central hub even though franchise expansion is rapidly taking place in cities like Arequipa, Piura, Trujillo, Ica, and Cusco. The combination of rising consumer spending and an expanding middle class with better infrastructure transforms these cities into prime locations for innovative business models.

Digitalization as a Catalyst for Expansion

The franchise sector is experiencing digitalization as its most transformative trend. Franchises in Peru utilize technological tools to expand their operations while simultaneously enhancing customer service and optimizing their supply chains. AI-driven analytics, along with mobile ordering platforms and cloud-based POS systems are now fundamental tools for brands to maintain market competitiveness and responsiveness.

Digital platforms have allowed franchises in Peru to penetrate markets they could not reach before. Digital infrastructure serves as an equalizer for business expansion across different sectors, including rural Cajamarca’s tutoring services and Pucallpa’s boutique cosmetic brands. The market transformation permits micro-franchise models that need minimal initial investment to serve highly specific local demands.

Global Interest and Strategic Trade Agreements

The network of Peru’s Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) has served as a crucial element in attracting international attention towards its franchise market. The enhanced Free Trade Agreement between China and Peru has opened up new possibilities for Asian brands to establish their presence in Peru through food chains and retail concepts. The nation maintains a stable and open investment environment through trade agreements with the United States, European Union, and crucial Latin American partners.

The Lima Chamber of Commerce reports that international franchises constitute around 60% of the nation’s franchise market with leading sources in the United States, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, Spain, and Mexico. The final 40% of franchises belong to Peruvian owners who help maintain equilibrium between global presence and local character. Peru becomes more attractive as a regional hub for franchise development through this dynamic.

Global business entities regard Peruvian franchise ventures as immediate profit-generating opportunities along with enduring strategic investments. Despite political uncertainty, confidence in Peru’s economic direction stays strong because the market anticipates 15 to 21 new international franchises entering by 2025.

The regional decentralization process has facilitated the emergence of new business hubs throughout the country.

The franchise market in Peru continues to be dominated by Lima but the expansion in secondary cities represents a very positive trend for the sector. Brands are investing in Trujillo, Arequipa, and Ica to reach new consumers while avoiding saturated markets in the capital.

Improved logistics systems along with superior transportation networks and a technologically aware consumer base beyond Lima are driving the regional expansion. Business chains previously focused on capital expansion now pursue tier-two cities as strategic growth centers to distribute investment gains and job opportunities throughout the nation.

Entrepreneurship and the Allure of Franchising

The entrepreneurial spirit has been a constant characteristic of Peruvians for generations. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) drive Peru’s economy while providing a strong framework for business owners through opportunities to develop franchises in Peru. This model offers entrepreneurs a business concept that has been tested over time together with brand recognition and sometimes operational support and training, which significantly lowers the risks involved in starting a new venture.

Local entrepreneurs in Peru turning increasingly towards franchising demonstrates the practicality of this business model. Franchising in Peru provides tech-enabled education services and trendy food truck networks with essential structure and scalability features that independent ventures struggle to develop on their own.

Looking Ahead: A Promising Horizon

The year 2025 reveals how Peruvian franchises have moved past previous challenges to achieve thriving success. Peru stands out as one of Latin America’s top franchise opportunities because of its diversified sector base along with strategic international partnerships and digital advancements.

The movement forward is clear as it encompasses international food businesses alongside local beauty enterprises. The future growth of Peru’s franchise industry requires sustainable and inclusive development from investors, entrepreneurs, and policymakers. The sustained backing and meticulous planning processes will enable Peruvian franchises to become long-term foundational elements in the country’s economic structure.

Unilever Announces Investment in Mexico: A Major Commitment Amid Uncertainty

Unilever Announces Investment in Mexico: A Major Commitment Amid Uncertainty

In a significant show of confidence in Mexico’s economic potential, global consumer goods leader Unilever announced investment in Mexico totaling 30 billion pesos—approximately USD 1.528 billion—between 2025 and 2028. The announcement was made during a presidential press conference, marking one of the most substantial foreign direct investment (FDI) commitments in recent years. This move comes amid growing uncertainty related to trade relations with the United States, making it especially noteworthy in the current economic climate.

Strengthening Regional Production and Supply Chains

According to Willem Uijen, Unilever’s Director of Supply Chain and Operations, the investment will focus heavily on the northern state of Nuevo León, where the company plans to increase manufacturing capacity, implement new production lines, develop logistics infrastructure, and accelerate the digitalization of its operations.

“Unilever announces investment in Mexico with pride and optimism, focusing on building one of our most advanced facilities in Latin America,” Uijen stated. “This long-term investment demonstrates our commitment to Mexico and the Latin American market.”

Salinas Victoria: The Heart of New Development

The centerpiece of this ambitious investment is a new state-of-the-art factory in Salinas, Victoria, a municipality within the Monterrey metropolitan area. Unilever will allocate 8 billion pesos (around USD 408 million) to construct and outfit this facility, which is expected to create over 1,200 direct and indirect jobs.

“This facility will focus on producing beauty and personal care items, including some of our flagship brands like Dove, Rexona, and Sedal,” Uijen explained. “The plant will be able to meet domestic demand and the needs of neighboring Latin American countries.”

By establishing this advanced manufacturing hub in Salinas, Victoria, Unilever aims to leverage Mexico’s strategic location and favorable trade agreements to improve regional supply chains and optimize delivery timelines. Unilever announces investment in Mexico to expand its footprint and bolster its efficiency across the Americas.

Supporting the Mexico Plan in a Time of Uncertainty

Marcelo Ebrard, Mexico’s Secretary of Economy, welcomed the announcement as a timely endorsement of the government’s “Mexico Plan,” which seeks to attract foreign investment, develop regional economies, and reduce import dependency. Ebrard emphasized that Unilever’s decision is especially significant during economic and political uncertainty.

“The fact that Unilever announces investment in Mexico in this context shows that our country remains an attractive and strategic destination for global capital,” Ebrard said. He added that while global investors remain cautious due to potential trade tensions and tariff disputes, particularly with the United States, Mexico demonstrates resilience and competitiveness.

Navigating Trade Tensions and the USMCA Advantage

The backdrop to this announcement includes concerns over potential tariff changes and regulatory uncertainty tied to the evolving trade relationship between Mexico and the United States. However, Mexico has managed to preserve tariff exemptions under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), giving it a competitive edge in attracting foreign capital.

This trade stability is a key factor behind why Unilever announces investment in Mexico now, betting on Mexico’s continued access to the North American market. With favorable trade conditions and a skilled labor force, Unilever sees Mexico as a launchpad for broader American operations.

Record Foreign Investment Despite Challenges

According to the Ministry of Economy, Mexico closed 2024 with a new record in foreign direct investment, reaching USD 36.872 billion—a 2.3% increase compared to 2023. While this upward trend underscores growing investor confidence, analysts warn that uncertainty over future U.S. tariffs could dampen the outlook for 2025.

Nonetheless, investments like Unilever’s counterbalance these concerns, injecting capital and optimism into the economy. Unilever announces investment in Mexico at a time when bold, future-focused projects are exactly what the country needs to maintain momentum in the global marketplace.

Focus on Innovation and Sustainability

Beyond job creation and infrastructure, Unilever’s investment strongly emphasizes sustainability and digital transformation. The company plans to implement cutting-edge technologies at its new facilities to reduce energy consumption, improve water efficiency, and minimize environmental impact.

“This factory will not only be one of the most advanced in output but also in sustainability and automation,” Uijen said. “Unilever announces investment in Mexico to align with global environmental responsibility and digital innovation standards.”

This strategy is aligned with Unilever’s broader corporate objectives of achieving net-zero emissions and supporting inclusive economic development across its operating regions.

Unilever’s Long-Term Vision for Latin America

Mexico is one of Unilever’s top five markets globally, and the company’s decision to expand its presence underscores its confidence in the region’s long-term growth prospects. The planned investment will allow Unilever to better serve the rising demand in Latin America, where middle-class growth and consumer spending have shown strong trends in recent years.

Centralizing production for domestic and export markets aims to enhance operational flexibility and reduce reliance on long-distance supply chains. Unilever’s investment in Mexico is part of a broader strategic initiative to regionalize production and mitigate global disruptions.

Conclusion: A Vote of Confidence in Mexico’s Future

As Mexico faces complex economic challenges and an unpredictable global landscape, Unilever’s decision to announce investment in Mexico sends a strong signal of stability and opportunity. The scale and scope of the investment, combined with its focus on innovation, job creation, and regional growth, offer a template for how multinational corporations can play a constructive role in shaping the country’s future.

The next three years will be crucial in executing these plans, but if successful, the initiative could catalyze further investments and economic revitalization across the region. With its strategic location, trade access, and expanding infrastructure, Mexico remains a compelling destination for global companies willing to bet on its potential.

Industrial Parks in Chile: Catalysts of Economic Growth and Regional Integration

Industrial Parks in Chile: Catalysts of Economic Growth and Regional Integration

Industrial parks in Chile play a vital role in forming the country’s overall economic structure. These zones offer compelling advantages to investors worldwide because they maintain modern infrastructure and strategic locations which make them key hubs for manufacturing and trade logistics. The robust economy of Chile along with its business-friendly regulations and sustainability commitments positions it as a prime location for industries targeting  Latin American and global markets.

Overview of Chile’s Industrial Park Ecosystem

Industrial parks in Chile concentrate business activities within strategically located zones to promote economic development. They deliver fundamental amenities including power supply, communication systems, water service, and waste handling as well as convenient transportation connections. Businesses located in industrial parks in Chile enjoy the advantages of joint infrastructure systems and the benefits of being near suppliers, service companies, and possible partners.

Through targeted incentives and investments in infrastructure combined with streamlined administrative processes the Chilean government actively promotes the development and expansion of industrial zones. These factors have made Chile an attractive hub for regional manufacturing operations and distribution networks. Industrial parks in Chile have become a key component of its national strategies which target regional decentralization and balanced development across different areas.

Prominent Industrial Parks in Chile

Zona Franca de Iquique (ZOFRI)

The Zona Franca de Iquique (ZOFRI) stands out as one of Chile’s main industrial parks. ZOFRI functions as an essential trade connection between Chile and its landlocked neighbors Bolivia, Peru, and Paraguay from its location in the northern port city of Iquique. The free trade zone provides major tax advantages by exempting companies from paying corporate income tax, VAT, and customs duties. The substantial cost savings from ZOFRI’s incentives make it an attractive choice for companies in warehousing, logistics, and light manufacturing sectors.

The ZOFRI zone encompasses 240 hectares and hosts over 1,600 businesses across diverse industries such as electronics, automotive manufacturing, textiles, and consumer goods. Through direct and indirect employment channels ZOFRI provides work for over 20,000 people which boosts local economic development and employment rates. The proximity to Iquique’s international port strengthens ZOFRI’s logistical benefits which streamline cross-continental import and export operations.

San Bernardo Industrial Park

San Bernardo Industrial Park functions as the primary logistics and manufacturing center positioned outside Santiago. The San Bernardo Industrial Park maintains seamless market connections through its proximity to Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport and major highway systems. Because of its strategic location and infrastructure San Bernardo Industrial Park excels at serving assembly, packaging, and distribution industries needing seamless supply chain and consumer access.

The park’s modern facilities combined with its strategic location create the perfect environment for businesses to minimize transit times and enhance operational productivity. The proximity to Santiago — Chile’s economic and political hub — provides opportunities to tap into its established urban labor force and comprehensive service network. Industrial parks in Chile including San Bernardo reflect the nation’s export-focused development strategy through their strategic design.

Coronel Industrial Park

The Coronel Industrial Park is located in the Biobío Region where it focuses on industries that leverage the area’s rich natural resources. It serves as a central point for businesses focused on forestry, timber, and paper production. The Biobío Region contains vast forested areas while Colonel’s industrial infrastructure enables value-added processes that include sawmilling, pulp production, and furniture manufacturing.

Coronel’s port access at Talcahuano enables efficient shipping of wood-based products to Asian markets as well as North American and European destinations. Local specialization triggers industry agglomeration that generates innovation while enabling cost-sharing and joint R&D efforts between companies. Specialized industrial parks in Chile enhance national competitiveness through support of growth and innovation within specific sectors.

Infrastructure and Connectivity

Chile maintains a well-established infrastructure network which serves as a crucial foundation for industrial activities. Key aspects include:

  • Transportation: International trade depends heavily on Chile’s major ports including Valparaíso and San Antonio. The Port of San Antonio demonstrated a 32% rise in containerized cargo throughput during June 2021 over the previous year which shows Chile’s increasing role in the global supply chain network. The industrial zones benefit from extensive road and rail networks that provide connections to ports and cities while enhancing logistical efficiency and mobility.
  • Energy: Chile stands out as a leading nation in solar and wind power among renewable energy sources. Industrial users benefit from a stable and sustainable energy supply that continues to become more cost-effective over time. Long-term dependence on renewable energy sources leads to substantial reductions in operational costs and greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Telecommunications: The nation boasts a strong telecommunications network that supports dependable business communication and instant data transfer essential for logistics operations, e-commerce activities, and high-tech manufacturing.

Labor Market Strengths

Industrial investors find the Chilean labor market to be one of the country’s major strengths.

  • Availability and Skills: Chile provides a workforce that combines expertise with education across its cities and industrial sectors. Professionals in Chile exhibit strong English proficiency which facilitates communication with international partners and clients.
  • Cost and Productivity: Chile faces higher labor costs compared to some neighboring nations but this disadvantage is balanced by superior productivity and efficiency in major economic sectors including mining and forestry technology.
  • Regulations: Chilean labor regulations require a 45-hour workweek spread over six days which includes a daily maximum of 10 working hours. Labor laws safeguard workers’ rights to establish and become members of unions without needing prior permission while only 10% of workers hold union memberships.
  • Training Incentives: The government’s SENCE program provides tax incentives for businesses that fund employee training which enables companies to elevate workforce skills to meet technological and market developments.

Regulatory Environment and Business Incentives

Chile’s pro-business regulatory framework serves as an essential factor which increases the appeal of its industrial park developments.

  • Tax Incentives: Free trade zones such as ZOFRI provide tax breaks and eliminate duties and VAT charges which lower both startup expenses and ongoing operational costs. Research and development (R&D) companies have the potential to obtain tax credits.
  • Ease of Doing Business: Chile stands out in Latin America for its strong transparency and regulatory efficiency which helps with contract enforcement to establish a stable setting for long-term investments.
  • Environmental Standards: Through strict environmental regulations the government boosts sustainability which helps Chilean exports gain global market competitiveness particularly within environmentally conscious markets.

Operational and Logistics Costs

Business operations within industrial parks in Chile require paying various expenses.

  • Lease Costs: The pricing for industrial property leases shifts according to both the location of the park and its proximity to urban areas or ports. Companies need to negotiate lease costs directly with park administrators.
  • Construction and Utilities: The construction expenses for new facilities depend on local labor costs along with material availability and regional energy requirements. Businesses that implement renewable energy solutions stand to experience reduced energy expenses over time and possible financial incentives.
  • Logistics: The strategic Pacific Rim position of Chile combined with its high-capacity ports leads to reduced freight costs and faster shipping times to major markets such as Asia, North America, and Oceania. The efficient road network facilitates punctual delivery of goods to both domestic and international destinations.

Tenant Diversity and Industry Clusters

Industrial parks in Chile are home to a wide range of tenants including multinational companies alongside small and medium-sized businesses. The diverse tenant mix enables industry clusters to develop shared services and pooled resources while providing access to specialized suppliers and encouraging collaborative innovation.

The ZOFRI industrial park enables electronics, textile and automotive companies to enhance competitiveness through close proximity to their suppliers and service providers which results in reduced turnaround time.

Conclusion

Companies seeking to establish or grow their Latin American operations find complete and effective solutions through industrial parks in Chile. These zones enable businesses to thrive and innovate due to robust infrastructure alongside skilled workers supported by beneficial regulations and competitive incentives. Businesses searching for dependable supply chain alternatives will find Chile a leading location for industrial investment.

Mendoza, Argentina, Launches “Invest in Mendoza,” a Platform to Attract Strategic Investment

Mendoza, Argentina, Launches “Invest in Mendoza,” a Platform to Attract Strategic Investment

The province of Mendoza, located in western Argentina and internationally recognized for its wine and natural beauty, is taking a significant leap forward in promoting economic growth and foreign direct investment. With the official launch of “Invest in Mendoza,” the provincial government aims to centralize investment opportunities and connect them with national and international stakeholders.

A Centralized Investment Platform for Key Sectors

The “Invest in Mendoza” platform was unveiled with the participation of prominent provincial bodies, including the Subsecretariat of Energy and Mining, IMPULSA Mendoza (a public-private initiative to foster sustainable mining), EMESA (Mendoza’s state-owned energy company), and EPRE (the provincial electricity regulatory authority). This digital platform is a comprehensive gateway for investors to explore and engage with mining, energy, and hydrocarbon projects.

The website provides a curated portfolio of opportunities, ranging from advanced solar energy installations to mature oil field reinvestment and untapped mineral deposits. By offering up-to-date, systematized information about available projects and incentives, it aims to enhance visibility, transparency, and investor confidence.

Promoting Public-Private Collaboration

Mendoza’s government is actively promoting public-private investment models as a core strategy for economic development. These partnerships are designed to maximize the impact of strategic sectors on the province’s economic matrix. By aggregating relevant information on active and upcoming projects, Invest in Mendoza facilitates early engagement between stakeholders, shortening the timeline between opportunity identification and capital deployment.

Jimena Latorre, Mendoza’s Minister of Energy and Environment, emphasized the importance of creating an agile and transparent platform:

“We began to systematize all the information about the province of Mendoza in Argentina to present it clearly. As companies have product catalogs, we’ve created brochures and project profiles to guide investors through Mendoza’s potential.”

Investment Tools and Competitive Advantages

The tools and frameworks developed to encourage investment strengthen Mendoza’s value proposition. These include a well-trained and competitive workforce, a stable legal environment, and specific fiscal incentives. For example, the provincial government recently implemented a policy eliminating the Gross Income Tax for renewable energy projects, making Mendoza a standout option for green energy investments.

The Invest in Mendoza platform reflects these efforts by showcasing the full spectrum of institutional support, tax breaks, legal protections, and technical infrastructure available to investors.

“We organized this information along with the projects, many of which are in development, and others for which we seek investors,” Latorre said. “This coordination includes contributions from entities such as the Hydrocarbons Directorate, the Mining Directorate, EMESA, EPRE, and the FOPIATZAD trust fund, which supports high-voltage infrastructure in underserved regions.”

A Strategic Map for the Future

At its core, Invest in Mendoza is a portal of information and a roadmap to the province’s economic future. Latorre stated:

“It answers where we’re headed, what we want to strengthen, and how our energy and mining sectors support our productive goals. It visualizes Mendoza’s strategic trajectory and communicates it to the world.”

The strategic planning efforts support this holistic vision, ensuring that investments align with long-term development goals such as sustainability, diversification, and innovation.

Mendoza’s Strategic Sectors

The platform focuses on three key sectors with transformative potential:

Mining

Thanks to its vast reserves of strategic minerals, including lithium, copper, and potassium, Mendoza is poised to become a major player in the global energy transition. The province is actively working to modernize its mining regulations, offering legal certainty and transparent processes for exploration and exploitation. With clear environmental and operational guidelines, investing in Mendoza becomes an attractive proposition for companies involved in sustainable mining.

Energy

The province is rapidly expanding its capacity for both renewable and conventional energy. Mendoza’s geographic and climatic conditions favor solar and hydroelectric development, and the government is actively seeking partners for utility-scale projects. EMESA, the state-owned energy firm, is key in initiating and managing partnerships for solar park development and grid expansion. These projects are now featured on Invest in Mendoza, where potential investors can access technical data, required capital, and contact information.

Hydrocarbons

Located over the Cuyana and Neuquén basins, Mendoza has long contributed to Argentina’s hydrocarbon production. New investments are encouraged to rejuvenate mature oil fields, implement enhanced recovery technologies, and explore untapped reserves. The Invest in Mendoza platform outlines opportunities, highlighting existing infrastructure and logistical advantages, such as pipeline access and local refining capacity.

Legal and Fiscal Incentives for Investors

Mendoza has established a solid legal framework to back investment in these sectors. Key elements featured on the platform include:

  • Large Investment Incentive Regime (LIGI): A program offering tax exemptions and other benefits for high-value projects.
  • Mining Investment Law: Protects investor rights and offers fiscal stability for up to 30 years.
  • Mining Procedure Code: Recently revised to simplify administrative processes and reduce barriers to entry.
  • Import Regime for Large Projects: Facilitates the import of specialized equipment and technology for qualified ventures.

These regulations are designed to de-risk investment and promote long-term confidence among stakeholders.

A Direct Bridge to the Investment World

The ultimate goal of Invest in Mendoza is to establish a direct and efficient connection with the global investment community. The platform is operational and available in Spanish and English, catering to domestic and international audiences. It includes interactive maps, downloadable brochures, and a regularly updated project directory.

Users can easily search for investment opportunities by sector, project stage (e.g., conceptual, pre-feasibility, shovel-ready), or geographic area within the province. Each listing includes detailed project descriptions, technical specifications, financial requirements, and contact points within the corresponding government agency.

By demystifying the investment process and presenting opportunities clearly and accessible, Invest in Mendoza helps eliminate many uncertainties that typically slow down project development.

A Competitive Province with a Global Vision

Manuel Sánchez Bandini, Undersecretary of Energy and Mining, summarized Mendoza’s ambition:

“We are confident that we are competitive at national and international levels. This is already being demonstrated through our solar parks and regulatory framework. We want to continue attracting investment and showcasing our capacity for project management.”

Indeed, Mendoza has become a proactive governance model in Argentina, pursuing modern energy policies, sustainable development goals, and improved administrative coordination.

Conclusion

With the launch of Invest in Mendoza, the province solidifies its position as a proactive and investment-ready destination in Argentina. The platform is more than a digital directory—it manifests Mendoza’s economic vision and readiness to engage with global capital.

From rich mineral resources to a promising renewable energy landscape and well-regulated hydrocarbons sector, Mendoza offers many opportunities for businesses seeking long-term, high-impact investments. For those looking to partner with a dynamic region backed by political will and regulatory clarity, now is the time to invest in Mendoza.