Puerto Quetzal, one of Guatemala’s main economic hubs, is on the path to transformation, thanks to an ambitious expansion project led by the Guatemalan government in collaboration with the United States—an expression of their joint commitment to the economic development and regional security of the Central American nation.

The Puerto Quetzal expansion project, directed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), aims to extend the port terminal by 800 meters, build four additional berths, bringing the total to eight, and modernize operational infrastructure to accommodate larger commercial vessels. These improvements will strengthen Guatemala’s commercial capacity and position the port as a regional logistics hub. Its location near the Panama Canal also gives it strategic value in global maritime transport.

“The U.S. is supporting the design and construction of 800 meters of dock divided into two equal sections, which will extend the existing facilities,” Vice Admiral José Antonio Lemus, President of the Quetzal Port Authority—the institution managing Puerto Quetzal, explained. “The Puerto Quetzal expansion will allow the port to handle larger cargo volumes and serve bigger ships, responding to the growing demands of international trade through Puerto Quetzal.”

Global Expertise

USACE has an outstanding track record in planning, constructing, and maintaining aquatic and land-based infrastructure projects. According to the Guatemalan News Agency, its involvement in the Puerto Quetzal expansion ensures a strong technical approach, including environmental, social, and feasibility assessments.

USACE has worked on numerous projects throughout Central America, including building drainage systems in communities in Honduras and El Salvador to mitigate flooding. In Honduras, for example, USACE implemented watershed management in 2020 following the impact of tropical storms Eta and Iota. In 2019, USACE personnel contributed to Guatemala by improving water infrastructure and building schools in rural areas such as Huehuetenango.

Beyond Central America, “its experience includes a technical agreement in Argentina focused on knowledge exchange and collaboration on waterways and ports,” reported the Argentine magazine Escenario Mundial. “This agreement lays the groundwork for closer cooperation between Argentina’s General Port Administration and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.”

Economic Turning Point

The modernization of Puerto Quetzal will mark a watershed moment in Guatemala’s commercial capabilities. Less than two weeks after U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited Guatemala, a USACE delegation visited from February 17 to 21 to conduct initial assessments of Puerto Quetzal’s capacity and discuss future cooperation to strengthen the country’s infrastructure.

When the final agreement is signed in May, Guatemalan officials will also submit three formal requests to USACE engineers. “The first is to expand the artificial dock by 800 meters; the second is to study another 400-meter extension, bringing the total to 1,200 meters for the artificial dock; and the third involves offshore development, where the water depth allows for more than 25 meters of draft a short distance from the shore,” said Vice Adm. Lemus.

The news portal LaHora reported that this Puerto Quetzal expansion will boost Guatemalan exports, reduce operating costs, and create jobs during the construction and operational phases, thereby improving local economic conditions.

“A large number of workers, both from the port authority and private companies, are residents of nearby communities,” added Vice Adm. Lemus. “On the other hand, the environmental impact of the Puerto Quetzal expansion is minimal, as it is located on open land not connected to local populations.”

Regional Benefits

The Puerto Quetzal expansion will enable the port to handle larger commercial ships, significantly increasing its operational capacity. “It will help reduce the wait times for ships wanting to enter the port. Some vessels currently wait over 20 days for an available berth to unload,” explained Vice Adm. Lemus. “Those 20 days drive up user costs. We estimate that waiting in line can sometimes cost up to USD 20,000 daily.”

Citizens will also see the benefits of the port’s improvement. “Puerto Quetzal contributes 20 percent of its annual profits to the federal government and allocates 15 percent to the regional municipality,” Vice Adm. Lemus revealed. “Moreover, the Puerto Quetzal expansion will bring strategic, economic, political, and social benefits to Guatemala and the wider region.”

“Even in military and naval matters, we could use these facilities for our partner nations. The ability to dock and resupply their vessels supports commercial activity and allows us to offer that capability as part of our contribution to regional security,” Vice Adm. Lemus concluded.

Conclusion

The Puerto Quetzal expansion marks a critical step toward redefining Guatemala’s regional and global trade role. By enhancing infrastructure and doubling the port’s operational capacity, the project paves the way for increased foreign investment, deeper commercial integration, and more competitive export capabilities. The involvement of USACE underscores a robust partnership between the United States and Guatemala, grounded in shared goals of economic resilience and regional security. With direct access to Pacific maritime routes and proximity to the Panama Canal, a modernized Puerto Quetzal can emerge as a premier logistics hub in Central America. This transformation will stimulate job creation and economic opportunities for nearby communities and reduce logistical costs for international shippers. As planning turns to execution, the port’s development symbolizes a broader commitment to sustainable infrastructure that aligns with Guatemala’s long-term vision for inclusive growth and regional cooperation.

Paraguay has quietly become one of South America’s most compelling investment destinations. With consistent 4% annual growth, a stable currency, and a favorable regulatory environment, this landlocked country steadily draws attention from international businesses. Aldo Benítez Cabrera, a seasoned lawyer and board member of the Chamber of Maquila Companies, recently offered a detailed analysis of the country’s economic development and the attractive investment opportunities in Paraguay.

A Strong Foundation for Growth

According to Benítez Cabrera, Paraguay has experienced a decade of uninterrupted growth, averaging 4% annually. Institutions such as the Getulio Vargas Foundation, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), and the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF) have all recognized Paraguay’s consistent performance, distinguishing it from more volatile economies in the region.

“A key differentiator for Paraguay has been policy continuity,” said Benítez Cabrera. “Regardless of which party is in power, the support for foreign investment has remained steadfast.” This consistency has contributed to a business climate where long-term planning and stable returns are possible.

Pro-Investment Policies and Legal Framework

Paraguay’s favorable investment climate is underpinned by robust legal tools that incentivize industrial development. Benítez Cabrera highlighted two primary mechanisms: Law 60/90, enacted in 1990, and the Maquila Law, which has been operational since 2000.

Law 60/90 offers tax exemptions for investors, including benefits on imports of capital goods and inputs, profits reinvested in the country, and even dividends distributed abroad. The Maquila Law provides a framework that allows companies to import raw materials tax-free, process them in Paraguay, and re-export the finished products. In return, these companies must generate jobs and increase the country’s export base.

These policies form the legal backbone that supports some of Paraguay’s most promising investment opportunities, especially in manufacturing and export-driven sectors.

A Hub for the Automotive Supply Chain

One of Paraguay’s standout industrial success stories is its emergence as a key player in the global automotive wiring industry. “We have six of Paraguay’s eight largest wire harness manufacturers installed,” Benítez Cabrera stated. “We produce wiring for Volkswagen, Hyundai, Kia, and Toyota vehicles and export to the world.”

This niche—but labor-intensive—segment of the automotive industry relies heavily on skilled manual labor. Although some aspects of cable production are automated, most of the process remains manual, generating thousands of jobs. Paraguay is home to over 15,000 workers in this sector, producing cables for vehicles ranging from Toyota Hilux pickups to double-cab Honda trucks, which are assembled in the U.S.

Even cutting-edge automakers like Tesla continue to use handmade wiring harnesses, demonstrating the durability of this sector as a leading investment opportunity in Paraguay.

Employment and Economic Ripple Effects

The maquiladora sector has become a major driver of Paraguay’s formal economy. With more than 30,000 direct jobs and $1.1 billion in exports, it makes a significant contribution to GDP and job creation. “We’re talking about 30,000 families,” Benítez Cabrera emphasized. “Add the indirect and induced jobs, and the ripple effect is tremendous.”

This impact extends into local communities, where wages from maquila jobs are spent on groceries, healthcare, clothing, and other everyday essentials, stimulating further economic activity. The money entering Paraguay through exports becomes “clean money” and is distributed throughout the economy, benefiting service providers and other businesses that may not be directly involved in manufacturing but still reap the benefits.

Such positive socioeconomic externalities underscore why the maquila model is among Paraguay’s most impactful investment opportunities for foreign firms looking to integrate local labor and production into global supply chains.

Stability That Inspires Confidence

Another often-overlooked advantage of doing business in Paraguay is the country’s stable national currency. “The guaraní is 80 years old. We’ve never removed a single zero,” said Benítez Cabrera. This long-term monetary stability contributes to investor confidence and economic predictability, starkly contrasting with neighboring countries like Argentina and Brazil, which have undergone repeated currency reforms due to hyperinflation

Currency consistency, combined with business-friendly regulations and government neutrality toward foreign investment, makes Paraguay stand out in a region where economic volatility is more the norm than the exception.

Leading Growth Sectors Beyond Manufacturing

While the maquila and automotive industries are among the most visible examples, Paraguay’s economic expansion extends beyond manufacturing. Key sectors experiencing robust growth include:

• Agribusiness: Paraguay is a global exporter of soybeans and beef, with vast fertile land and low production costs.
• Livestock: Meat production, especially beef, continues to expand in volume and international reach.
• Construction: Urban expansion and infrastructure development fuel demand for construction materials and labor.
• Light Industry: Beyond automotive parts, textiles, plastics, and food processing are gaining momentum.

These sectors represent diversified investment opportunities in Paraguay for international firms seeking to enter emerging markets with low overhead costs and high return potential.

A Personal Perspective from a Business Insider

With more than two decades of experience advising companies that have expanded into Paraguay, Benítez Cabrera views the country’s evolution as personal and professional. “I was in the right place at the right time when this new Paraguay was beginning to take shape—an industrialized Paraguay aiming to create new formal economic drivers to generate GDP and jobs that draw people out of the informality we were so used to.”

His insights reflect a profound transformation taking place in Paraguay. From a historically agrarian society to a dynamic, export-oriented economy, the country opens new chapters by deliberately cultivating its manufacturing base and enforcing policies that favor long-term, sustainable investment.

Why Investors Should Pay Attention

As global companies seek cost-effective, reliable, and stable environments to expand their operations, Paraguay stands out as a hidden gem in South America. The country’s political consistency, legal incentives, labor availability, and macroeconomic stability offer a compelling case for multinational firms.

Paraguay’s investment opportunities continue to expand in automotive components, agribusiness, light industry, and infrastructure. Paraguay presents an open door with tangible returns for investors seeking growth markets outside traditional hotspots.

The United States and the Dominican Republic have deepened their collaboration to enhance trade security and streamline cross-border logistics, particularly at the country’s ports and airports. This joint effort underscores a growing emphasis on fortifying the Dominican Republic logistics chain, a critical regional and international commerce component.

Strengthening Port and Airport Security Through U.S.-Dominican Cooperation

The collaboration involves U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) personnel stationed directly at key logistics hubs in the Dominican Republic. These American officials are working closely with Dominican authorities to elevate the security standards of the country’s transportation infrastructure.

Abdías Ortiz, Regional Attaché for the Caribbean with CBP, confirmed the depth of this partnership during a recent high-level industry event. “We are working very closely with Dominican authorities to enhance port and airport security, thereby bringing a level of security to the supply and logistics chain for the United States,” Ortiz stated.

This cooperative model includes information sharing, joint surveillance strategies, and risk assessment measures designed to identify and neutralize threats such as the smuggling of illicit goods. Ortiz stressed that having U.S. personnel on the ground enables a proactive approach to potential issues, preventing them from impacting the Dominican Republic’s logistics chain or the broader international system.

A Milestone Event: BASC Certification Ceremony

These remarks were delivered at the prestigious certification ceremony of 52 Dominican companies under the BASC (Business Alliance for Secure Commerce) standard. Held at the El Embajador Hotel, the event formed part of the organization’s annual general assembly, where public and private sector leaders convened to discuss trade security trends and innovations.

BASC is an international business alliance promoting secure commerce through partnerships between governments and businesses. Certification under the BASC standard signifies compliance with global supply chain security protocols and operational integrity.

The president of BASC’s Dominican chapter, Horacio Lomba, opened the event with a powerful address on global logistics challenges. “We are living through turbulent times, in which geopolitical and economic shifts, technological advancements, and climate change have pressured and slowed global trade,” Lomba noted.

His comments reflected the urgency of shoring up infrastructure and processes within the Dominican Republic logistics chain to keep pace with international demands.

Global Shocks and Local Responses

Lomba further highlighted how synthetic drugs and counterfeit goods have strained national health systems, even in the most developed countries, calling for enhanced vigilance. “Supply chain disruptions, international wars, and the reduction of maritime traffic through the Suez and Panama Canals are redrawing the global map, forcing us to be far more alert and well-informed,” he said.

This global backdrop reinforces the importance of partnerships between the United States and the Dominican Republic. It also emphasizes the necessity for local companies to obtain certifications and adopt best practices that enhance the security and efficiency of the Dominican Republic logistics chain.

Spotlight on Certified Companies

The ceremony honored 52 Dominican institutions that achieved BASC certification. These organizations represent diverse sectors within the logistics and transportation ecosystem, playing crucial roles in moving goods across the Caribbean and beyond.

• Some of the certified companies include:
• Armadura Protección y Seguridad
• Agentes y Estibadores Portuarios
• Almacenes y Frigoríficos Dominicanos
• Dominican Watchman National
• Cervecería Nacional Dominicana
• Haina International Terminal
• Molinos del Ozama
• Pier 17 Group Dominicana
• Jabil Healthcare DR
• Hospifar
• Plásticos Multiform
• Now Logistics
• Rodemsa
• Sans Souci Ports
• Truckslogic Dominica

These companies exemplify the robust capacity and commitment of the private sector to uphold global security standards and enhance the resilience of the Dominican Republic logistics chain. Their certification signifies readiness to mitigate risks and capitalize on trade and investment opportunities with key partners such as the United States.

A Model for Regional Leadership

The Dominican Republic’s proactive stance has cemented its role as a leader in secure trade within the Caribbean. The country’s willingness to engage directly with U.S. security agencies and elevate its logistics protocols aligns with international expectations.

Through enhanced port surveillance, anti-smuggling measures, and industry certifications, the Dominican Republic logistics chain is increasingly viewed as a reliable link in the broader supply chain network that services the Americas and other global regions.

This collaborative framework also serves as a potential model for neighboring countries aiming to improve their trade infrastructure and compliance with international security standards.

Future Prospects: Investing in Logistics Resilience

Looking ahead, continued investment in logistics infrastructure, digital security tools, and international partnerships will be crucial to maintaining and growing the Dominican Republic’s competitiveness in global trade.

With geopolitical tensions, climate-related disruptions, and evolving threats continuing to challenge supply chains, robust cooperation between countries like the U.S. and the Dominican Republic offers a vital path forward.

As certified companies expand their operations and new firms seek BASC certification, the Dominican Republic’s logistics chain will become stronger, able to withstand shocks and deliver value.

Conclusion

The United States—Dominican Republic partnership represents a high-impact initiative to safeguard and strengthen regional logistics operations. By stationing U.S. personnel in Dominican ports and sharing critical security data, both nations are building a safer, more efficient framework for trade.

With 52 Dominican companies now certified under the BASC standard, the Dominican Republic has signaled its commitment to international best practices and secure commerce. This strengthens the Dominican Republic logistics chain, reinforces trust among global trading partners, and positions the country as a regional benchmark for secure, resilient logistics.

Port development is essential for a country’s economic growth. Ports serve as vital hubs in international trade, facilitating the movement of goods and promoting competitiveness, productivity, and economic development across regions. They enable countries to participate more fully in the global economy, stimulate local industries, and attract foreign investment. In this regard, the Almirante Miguel Grau Port Terminal project in Tacna emerges as a strategic initiative for Peru’s southern region, potentially transforming it into a significant logistics hub.

This new project, estimated to cost around $ 400 million, is poised to become a key piece of infrastructure, with the capacity to handle imports and exports between Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, and Asian markets. Directly managing these commercial flows will significantly reduce dependence on other ports, particularly those located farther north or in neighboring countries. Given its strategic location near international borders, the new port in Peru will help to boost the country’s competitiveness and open new commercial routes to the Pacific Ocean.

Interest in the Almirante Miguel Grau Port project is growing internationally. Investors in the United States and Hong Kong have shown strong interest in developing and executing this new infrastructure. Their attention reflects the port’s promising potential and the broader opportunities arising from Peru’s expanding role in global trade networks.

Peruvian Port Attracts Investors Based in the U.S. and Hong Kong

The regional governor of Tacna, Luis Torres Robledo, recently announced that a second major international company had expressed a concrete interest in investing in the development of the Almirante Miguel Grau Port. This announcement came after the port’s master plan was officially approved by the National Port Authority (ANP), a milestone that marked a turning point for the project.

Governor Torres Robledo received a formal letter of intent from representatives of ANU Global Green Energy Holdings, a U.S.-based company with considerable expertise in infrastructure investments, particularly in renewable energy and energy transition projects. In their communication, the company outlined its intention not only to invest in the construction of the port infrastructure but also to participate in the execution and long-term management of the Almirante Miguel Grau Port Terminal, as well as the administration of the Exclusive Commercial Zone that will complement the port operations.

This announcement follows an earlier proposal made just two weeks prior by the Port and Investment Consortium Tuzel, a company headquartered in Hong Kong. Tuzel proposed offering a $500 million investment to fully finance the terminal’s development. This competition among international investors highlights the strategic value of the new port in Peru for regional logistics and commerce.

In light of the growing international interest, Governor Torres Robledo reiterated his call to the Ministry of Transport and Communications to prioritize including the project’s master plan in the Multiyear Investment Report for Public-Private Partnerships (Imiapp). This move is considered crucial for accelerating the port’s execution timeline and for establishing Tacna as a new and dynamic logistics and commercial hub in southern Peru.

The project’s success could create a ripple effect across multiple industries, including transportation, manufacturing, agriculture, and services, further cementing the strategic importance of developing this major port in Peru.

Miguel Grau Port in Tacna Receives Master Plan Approval from ANP

A critical milestone for the Almirante Miguel Grau Port was achieved in September 2024 when the Board of Directors of the National Port Authority (ANP) officially approved the Grau Port Master Plan. The Regional Government of Tacna prepared and submitted this plan and underwent rigorous evaluations before being accepted and incorporated into the National Port Development Plan. The approval is widely regarded as a significant step forward, formally recognizing the project as a national priority and making it eligible for greater institutional support and investment promotion.

“We now have a birth certificate — we exist, we are no longer nameless, we are no longer just a dream, we are a reality. This is the first step. Now, hand in hand with ProInversión, we will work on the project’s economic and financial viability to promote it worldwide and begin construction as soon as possible,” Governor Torres Robledo emphasized in a statement to local media.

The development of the Almirante Miguel Grau Port goes hand in hand with broader regional initiatives, particularly the ambitious project to build the bioceanic railway. This railway aims to link southern Peru with Bolivia and Brazil, creating a powerful logistical corridor from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean. Integrating the port infrastructure with the new railway system would provide unparalleled connectivity for international trade routes, further increasing the importance of this new port in Peru.

Meanwhile, the president of the ANP underlined that the approval of the master plan represents the “birth certificate” of this key project. He pointed out that this step paves the way for more detailed technical, economic, and financial studies to be conducted in collaboration with the Private Investment Promotion Agency (ProInversión). These studies will be essential for structuring the project to attract both domestic and international investors and ensure the long-term success of the new port in Peru.

Conclusion

The Almirante Miguel Grau Port project in Tacna has rapidly evolved from a visionary idea into an emerging reality, thanks to strategic planning, strong government support, and growing international interest. With investors from the United States and Hong Kong already signaling their commitment and with formal backing from Peru’s key regulatory bodies, the future of this port in Peru looks promising.

As construction begins and related infrastructure projects like the bioceanic railway advance, the port is poised to redefine southern Peru’s role in global trade. It will create new economic opportunities for the region and contribute significantly to Peru’s overall economic resilience and international connectivity.

A New Global Trade Landscape Creates Openings for Guatemala

Guatemala stands before a remarkable opportunity in the evolving world of international commerce. The traditional dominance of Asian manufacturers, especially those in China, in light manufacturing sectors like toys is being challenged by global supply chain shifts. Tensions between the United States and China have disrupted established trade routes, creating a vacuum for new players to emerge. According to Juan Esteban Sánchez, executive director of the public-private initiative Invest Guatemala, these disruptions present a strategic chance for Guatemala to position itself as a competitive supplier in the global toy market.

Guatemala and the global toy industry are becoming increasingly intertwined as international companies seek reliable, cost-effective, and geographically closer alternatives to Asian production hubs. Sánchez emphasizes that Guatemala’s logistical proximity to North America, a key consumer market, makes it an attractive destination for new manufacturing investments.

Competitive Advantages Bolster Guatemala’s Case

Several factors make Guatemala a compelling contender in this shifting landscape. The country boasts a network of trade agreements that facilitates preferential access to major markets, including the United States, Mexico, and Central America. Affordable production costs further incentivize investors who seek to maximize value while maintaining high-quality standards.

In addition to cost and access advantages, Guatemala offers a macroeconomic and institutional environment characterized by stability and openness to foreign investment. In a world where supply chain resilience and predictability have become more crucial than ever, these attributes enhance Guatemala’s profile among global decision-makers.

Sánchez notes that Guatemala’s workforce is another key asset. The country already has companies with proven experience exporting goods made from plastics, wood, cardboard, and textiles—all critical raw materials for the toy industry. These firms operate modern plants and employ trained personnel ready to adapt to new manufacturing requirements, making the transition into toy production a feasible and attractive proposition.

Challenges to Overcome for Long-Term Success

While the opportunity is clear, Sánchez is candid about the challenges that Guatemala must address to capitalize on its potential fully. Infrastructure remains a pressing issue. The country must invest in strengthening its logistics backbone, particularly in areas such as road connectivity, port efficiency, and customs services. Delays and added costs could undermine Guatemala’s competitive advantages if transportation and trade facilitation are not efficient.

Moreover, Sánchez stresses the importance of facilitating investment in technological modernization. Guatemalan manufacturers must meet stringent quality, safety, and sustainability standards to compete globally. This requires access to modern machinery, automation tools, and enhanced production processes. Supporting companies with access to working capital is equally vital so they can make the necessary investments to upgrade facilities and expand production capacity.

Guatemala and the global toy industry must move forward by addressing these systemic challenges through coordinated public and private sector initiatives.

Sustainability and Culture: Unique Selling Points for Guatemalan Toys

Beyond logistics and cost competitiveness, Guatemala has the potential to offer something uniquely valuable to the global toy industry: authenticity and sustainability. Sánchez highlights that integrating important symbolic values into toy production could help Guatemalan products stand out in an increasingly discerning global market.

Toys that reflect Guatemala’s rich cultural heritage—traditions, folklore, and Indigenous artistry—could captivate international consumers seeking unique and meaningful products. Furthermore, sustainable materials and embracing circular economy practices in manufacturing would resonate strongly with eco-conscious buyers.

Guatemala and the global toy industry are poised to align on these shared values, offering toys that are not only fun but also tell a story and contribute to a greener planet.

Existing Capabilities Provide a Strong Foundation

Guatemala doesn’t have to start from scratch to build its presence in the toy industry. According to Sánchez, several companies already manufacture children’s products such as tricycles, furniture, and food containers. These firms have the production know-how, regulatory understanding, and logistical networks needed to scale up and diversify into a broader range of toy products.

Leveraging these existing capabilities gives Guatemala an edge over other emerging competitors. With strategic investment in design, branding, and global marketing, local manufacturers could rapidly expand their footprint and build globally recognized brands.

Guatemala and the global toy industry are poised to enter into a partnership that could bring significant economic benefits to the country while enriching the international toy market.

Moving Forward: Strategic Collaboration is Key

Coordination among government agencies, private enterprises, and international investors will be essential to seize this opportunity. Public policies that promote investment streamline regulatory procedures, and improve education and training in manufacturing technologies will enhance Guatemala’s attractiveness as a production base.

Additionally, partnerships with global toy brands could accelerate Guatemalan companies’ learning curve. Joint ventures, licensing agreements, and technical collaborations enable local manufacturers to adopt international best practices quickly and gain credibility with global buyers.

In conclusion, Guatemala and the global toy industry stand at a pivotal intersection. If the right strategic moves are made now—investing in infrastructure, fostering innovation, and emphasizing sustainability—Guatemala could establish itself as a dynamic new player in this lucrative sector. With commitment, vision, and collaboration, the land of the quetzal may soon become synonymous with quality toys that delight children worldwide.