Morgan Stanley recently noted that Brazil and Argentina stand out as the Latin American countries with the best investment potential for 2025. A prestigious U.S. investment bank published a comprehensive report highlighting strong economic dynamics and reform momentum in both countries, which prompted this renewed focus. Under the new projection, Chile loses its once favorable position due to emerging challenges that diminish its short-term attractiveness.

Global investors and regional stakeholders should recognize investment opportunities in Brazil and Argentina as essential to Latin America’s economic recovery because their future holds both financial promise and structural changes that will establish them as key economic pillars.

Brazil’s Economic Resilience and Diversified Growth Potential

A Positive Macroeconomic Forecast

Morgan Stanley projects that Brazil’s GDP will increase by 2.5% in 2025, thanks to strong domestic consumption and growing infrastructure investments. The optimistic economic outlook depends on strong macroeconomic indicators supported by the Central Bank of Brazil’s effective monetary policy management. The continuous reduction of interest rates is anticipated to drive further consumer purchases and corporate investments, which will generate widespread economic benefits.

Portfolio diversification becomes highly pertinent with new investment opportunities in Brazil and Argentina emerging in this specific context. The large population and diversified economic structure of Brazil create strong potential for foreign direct investment (FDI), especially in sectors aligned with international megatrends like digitalization and energy transition.

Brazil’s market potential extends across three main sectors: technology, energy solutions, and natural resources.

The analysis from Morgan Stanley positions Brazil as a strong and varied market, which shows great potential in specific sectors, including technology, renewable energy, and commodities. Brazil emerges as a vital supplier of raw materials because worldwide demand has increased due to green energy transitions and industrial expansion in developing markets.

Brazil holds a competitive advantage because it possesses substantial resources of iron ore, as well as oil and agricultural goods. Brazil’s technology sector continues to grow rapidly while demonstrating dynamic characteristics. Both startups and established enterprises continue to grow their operations in fintech, e-commerce, and artificial intelligence, while drawing investments from venture capital firms and institutional investors. Traditional strengths and digital advancements create a strong investment opportunity across multiple sectors.

Investors interested in Latin American markets will find that investment opportunities in Brazil and Argentina present strong reasons for sustained activity, due to the combination of mature industries and growing sectors.

Argentina’s Reforms Spark Renewed Optimism

Macroeconomic Stabilization and Legislative Progress

Brazil’s structural strengths dominate headlines while Argentina receives attention for its ambitious reform initiatives. Morgan Stanley reports that Argentina’s government has implemented practical measures to overcome decades of economic turmoil. The government demonstrated its dedication to institutional and economic changes through the enactment of the “Ley de Bases” (Foundational Law) and its related fiscal measures.

The Central Bank of Argentina has achieved progress toward stabilizing the nation’s macroeconomic landscape. As of May 2025, international reserves stood at $33 billion, which represents a critical achievement for maintaining exchange rate stability. The step-by-step dismantling of capital controls, known as the “cepo cambiario,” has improved investor confidence because it enhanced the transparency and predictability of capital flows.

Investment opportunities in Brazil and Argentina have become central to international investor interest due to these recent developments. Despite its historical reputation as an unstable market because of continuous inflation and unpredictable policy changes, Argentina now demonstrates potential as an attractive investment location.

Strategic Sectors: Energy, Mining, and Agribusiness

Morgan Stanley highlights Argentina’s abundant natural resources and key economic sectors as critical assets. The unconventional hydrocarbons found within Argentina’s Vaca Muerta shale formation maintain substantial energy sector interest and provide export opportunities for the future. Argentina stands out as an essential supplier in the global battery supply chain due to its significant lithium reserves and the growing demand for electric vehicles.

The agricultural industry continues to stand as a fundamental element of Argentina’s competitive edge. Argentina functions as a vital source of high-quality soybeans, corn, and beef for international food markets. These sectors have the potential to generate economic growth and fiscal stability when operating under favorable investment conditions.

Chile’s Downgrade: A Regional Contrast

The Morgan Stanley rankings show Brazil and Argentina moving up while Chile faces a relative downgrade. The bank estimates Chile’s GDP growth will reach only 2% in 2025 because of increasing political risks stemming from its constitutional reform process.

Despite Chile’s strong fundamentals, which include low credit risk and institutional reliability, the investment bank finds its short-term investment opportunities to be limited. This change indicates a regional investment shift that benefits investment opportunities in Brazil and Argentina, because their market momentum combined with their reform paths provide stronger attraction.

Risks and Rewards: A Balanced Perspective

Argentina’s Remaining Challenges

Morgan Stanley acknowledges that Argentina faces several challenges despite prevailing optimism. Investors face both currency instability and the necessity to maintain consistent policy execution. The government’s initial efforts to build credibility must be followed by continuous reform execution and macroeconomic management to achieve lasting investor confidence.

The bank points out that Argentine assets, such as sovereign bonds and energy stocks, are trading below their true value. Investors who are willing to accept more risk and have a medium-term investment perspective might achieve substantial returns from these assets.

Brazil’s Stability and Growth Foundations

Brazil creates a safe investment climate for both large institutions and individual investors through its economic stability. Morgan Stanley believes investment funds targeting domestic consumer markets and tech sector expansion provide attractive risk-return prospects through combined strengths in scale and innovation.

Investment opportunities in Brazil and Argentina can be customized to match various investor profiles by providing moderate risk growth opportunities in Brazil and higher potential returns through value investments in Argentina.

Capitalizing on the New Axis of Growth

Morgan Stanley’s report makes it clear: investment opportunities in Brazil and Argentina are establishing a new economic force driving Latin America’s progress. Investors, including multinational corporations and regional venture capitalists, now have a distinctive chance to adjust their strategies.

Brazil stands as a dependable growth engine due to its large domestic market combined with established institutions and varied economic sectors. The combination of Argentina’s reformist momentum and its strategic resources provides an exceptional opportunity for early investors who move quickly.

Entrepreneurs and investment funds active in the region now have several opportunities to penetrate the market due to the evolving business environment. The opportunity for substantial financial returns exists for those investing in Brazil’s thriving digital sector alongside Argentina’s lithium mining industry.

Looking Ahead: Regional Integration and Global Trends

Potential for Bilateral Synergies

Opportunities exist for cross-border collaboration between differing nations. Brazil and Argentina’s potential alignment in trade, energy, and technology partnerships makes the establishment of an integrated regional growth platform strategically feasible. Building shared infrastructure alongside better logistics and standardized regulations will enable companies in both markets to achieve scalability and operational efficiency.

The collaboration between Brazil and Argentina creates investment opportunities in the two countries that should be viewed as elements of Latin America’s regional resurgence rather than separate ventures.

Attracting Global Capital

The region of Latin America is regaining global importance because of geopolitical realignment and supply chain diversification, together with increased demand for essential minerals and agricultural products. The combination of their size, natural resources, and new policy directions makes Brazil and Argentina key leaders for this transformation.

The Morgan Stanley report extends beyond current status analysis to predict regional transitions and global investor patterns. The market shows increased confidence, which will draw substantial capital investments, alongside boosting innovation and generating enduring economic growth.

Conclusion: Seizing the Moment

The investment story throughout Latin America undergoes significant changes as 2025 progresses. The investment opportunities in Brazil and Argentina extend beyond positive economic numbers because they demonstrate fundamental changes that will set the region’s future course for many years.

Dynamic market participants should take immediate action to capitalize on current evolving market conditions. Investors can achieve considerable rewards from Brazil’s consistent growth pattern while simultaneously capitalizing on Argentina’s transformative reforms. Stakeholders who approach their investments with strategic precision and knowledgeable choices will place themselves at the center of Latin America’s upcoming growth era.

By maintaining political stability and implementing robust infrastructure investments alongside progressive tax incentives and focusing on innovation and sustainability, Costa Rica strengthens its appeal as a prime destination for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). The country’s improved position in the Global Business Complexity Index demonstrates its established reduction in business barriers and enhanced environment for international companies.

Improving Competitiveness Through Simplicity

Costa Rica’s ranking of 58th in the Global Business Complexity Index 2025, down from 51st in 2024 and 45th in 2023, highlights a noteworthy trend: Business operations in the country are becoming simpler to conduct. The TMF Group’s index assesses business complexity by analyzing 250 indicators in 79 jurisdictions, which account for 93% of global GDP and 88% of net global foreign direct investment flows. The assessment of foundational business processes, including company incorporation and payroll management, along with benefits administration and regulatory compliance, establishes this index as a dependable measure for global market access evaluation.

The regular decline in complexity rankings proves that Costa Rica is successfully advancing its business environment through meaningful reforms. Through streamlining bureaucratic processes, Costa Rica creates a business-friendly environment that attracts foreign enterprises and meets global investment standards.

Digitalization and Regulatory Streamlining

The digital transformation initiatives in Costa Rica have played a key role in advancing its business environment. The government’s introduction of digital solutions for tax submissions and permit processing has greatly simplified administrative operations for domestic and international firms. The reforms achieve operational setup speed reductions while simultaneously improving transparency and accountability.

The streamlined incorporation procedures now enable foreign investors to access the market more rapidly. Improved collaboration between institutions like PROCOMER and the Ministry of Economy, Industry, and Commerce (MEIC) has resulted in predictable business timelines and reduced regulatory obstacles.

Expanding Free Trade Zones and Strategic Corridors

The free trade zone (FTZ) system in Costa Rica stands out as one of the top incentives available to foreign investors. Investors benefit from multiple tax advantages within these zones, such as no income tax for specified years, being free from import duties on capital goods, and diminished social security payments. The nation has more than 400 companies participating within its free trade zone regime as of 2024, which create jobs for over 100,000 people while contributing significantly to national exports.

FTZ expansions outside the Central Valley are driving regional development and market diversification. The decentralization of economic activities in Costa Rica helps reduce urban congestion while balancing regional disparities. Investments in trade infrastructure support the expansion through new road corridors alongside improved port facilities and airport modernization.

Key infrastructure projects include:

• Route 32 receives upgrades to create a direct connection between San José and the Caribbean port of Moín.
• The San Carlos Highway enhances transportation links throughout northern areas.
• Efficient international trade operations depend on the modernization process of Moín and Caldera ports.

Costa Rica’s place in the Global Business Complexity Index shows better performance because of strategic national efforts that promote economic resilience and better global trade network connections.

Sustainability as a Cornerstone of Economic Policy

The leadership of Costa Rica in sustainability practices creates a distinctive advantage for attracting foreign direct investment. The nation produces more than 98% of its electricity through renewable sources while pursuing ambitious carbon neutrality targets. Companies entering the market will face more complicated operations when introducing sustainable practices, but these practices match the Environmental, Social, and Governance standards used in ESG investments.

Global investors now prioritize sustainable infrastructure alongside clean energy options and eco-friendly supply chain practices. Costa Rica’s commitment to environmental sustainability protects its biodiversity while establishing it as a progressive business hub, which boosts its standing in the Global Business Complexity Index.

Security and Transparency Measures

Many people fail to notice that Costa Rica’s business environment benefits from both a solid institutional framework and democratic governance. Costa Rica maintains its position as one of Latin America’s most stable democracies, through its minimal corruption levels and strong judicial independence and rule of law. These factors provide investors with a secure and predictable environment that reduces typical political risks found throughout the region.

The government’s implementation of stronger border control measures, enhanced customs operations, and anti-money laundering policies demonstrates its commitment to increasing transparency. These efforts build international partner trust and boost adherence to global standards, which leads to better results in the Global Business Complexity Index for the country.

Talent Availability and Labor Challenges

Costa Rica maintains a skilled workforce with strong representation in STEM fields, but faces talent deficits in certain specialized areas. The influx of multinational corporations into the life sciences, medical devices, and technology sectors has generated a competitive labor market in the country where demand exceeds supply.

Public-private partnerships are funding upskilling programs along with bilingual education and technical training to address this issue. The National Institute of Learning (INA), along with public universities, continues to enhance its educational programs to address industrial requirements. To maintain a favorable ranking in future Global Business Complexity Index editions, companies must address existing talent shortages.

Currency Appreciation: A Double-Edged Sword

Costa Rica retains numerous benefits but also encounters obstacles that threaten its competitive position. The recent appreciation of the Costa Rican colón (CRC) stands out as the primary financial challenge. The increased strength of the currency results in higher export prices and elevated operational costs for businesses that need to change U.S. dollars into colones for their local payments.

Export-focused businesses located in free trade zones stand to face tighter profit margins and lose competitive ground against other Latin American markets due to this economic shift. Policymakers should track exchange rate movements while exploring methods to maintain Costa Rica’s status as an economical manufacturing and service hub.

Connectivity and Transport Efficiency

The logistics network of Costa Rica is becoming better, yet continues to experience operational inefficiencies. The two major seaports of Costa Rica, located at Moín in Limón on the Caribbean coast and Caldera in Puntarenas on the Pacific coast, serve vital roles in trade operations. The logistics network continues to struggle with ongoing capacity constraints and delays.

Costa Rica maintains a sophisticated air transport infrastructure, which includes Juan Santamaría International Airport and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport, to provide international passenger and air cargo services. Costa Rica needs to allocate more resources to road network development and customs modernization to manage increasing logistics demands.

A Resilient Platform for Investment

The steady rise of Costa Rica in the Global Business Complexity Index stems from purposeful initiatives to streamline business operations, alongside efforts to boost economic sustainability and build investor trust. Costa Rica stands as the leading Latin American choice for foreign investors through its distinctive mix of environmental leadership and strong institutions, alongside its political stability and trade openness.

The nation maintains competitive resilience for international business through its proactive reform strategies and infrastructure development despite enduring talent shortages and logistical inefficiencies.

A Historic Step Toward Economic Integration

Through decisive actions, Ecuador and Canada Accelerate Strategic Trade Agreement talks that will transform their economic connection. At Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa’s inauguration ceremony, both nations signed a mutual declaration that demonstrates their dedication toward completing the awaited trade agreement. The landmark agreement received approval from Ecuador’s Minister of Production, Luis Jaramillo, along with Canada’s Minister of Export Promotion Maninder Sidhu.

The Ecuador and Canada Accelerate Strategic Trade Agreement initiative, scheduled for signing in 2025, intends to boost joint economic growth while creating new export opportunities and establishing Ecuador as Canada’s key strategic partner throughout South America. The move to speed up negotiations demonstrates to the global community that Ecuador and Canada are advancing their strategic trade talks with urgency and shared interest.

A Comprehensive Trade Pact

The negotiation process started in March 2024 and successfully completed six discussion rounds by February 2025. The agreement allows Ecuador to obtain special access to Canada’s market with 39.8 million consumers. Ecuador relies on this market access to broaden its export range and decrease dependence on its conventional trade partners such as the United States, China, and the European Union.

The signed declaration will significantly affect investment and trade, according to Ecuador’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The declaration will strengthen diplomatic and commercial ties between the two countries. The agreement contains comprehensive frameworks for multiple sectors, like goods and services, while also covering investment protection, sustainable development, and e-commerce.

Sectoral Opportunities for Ecuador

The economic landscape of Ecuador shows potential growth across multiple important industry areas. The new agreement eliminates tariffs on duty-subjected goods, which will enable Ecuador to expand exports of floriculture products and processed foods like canned tuna, along with textiles, ceramics, auto parts, footwear, and plastics. Canadian consumers will soon discover Ecuador’s renowned toquilla straw hats alongside tagua handicrafts, which will strengthen their market position.

The Ecuador and Canada Strategic Trade Agreement effort aims to benefit small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), since they typically face difficulties with export costs and international regulatory barriers. Removing tariffs will enable SMEs to enter Canada’s profitable consumer market with greater ease. Economic inclusion, along with job creation and innovation, will be the expected outcomes of the accelerated strategic trade agreement discussions between Ecuador and Canada.

Agricultural and Labor Protections

The Ecuadorian negotiation team focused on safeguarding sensitive economic sectors while developing the agreement. The agreement includes special protective measures for small-scale farmers growing rice and producing dairy, alongside those who grow corn and produce sugar and meat products. The implemented measures demonstrate an intentional approach to ensure food security and social equity through free trade principles.

The agreement between both governments will maintain high standards for labor practices and environmental protection. The agreement includes components that support fair wages, safe working conditions, and the promotion of climate resilience. The agreement matches Canada’s forward-thinking trade strategy, which emphasizes both sustainability and gender parity.

Addressing the Trade Deficit

The trade volume between Ecuador and Canada remains modest but shows consistent growth patterns. Between January and November 2024, Ecuador sent USD 269 million in non-oil goods to Canada but bought USD 333 million worth of goods, mainly including capital equipment and raw materials, from Canada. Ecuador faced a trade deficit amounting to USD 64 million.

The Ecuador and Canada Strategic Trade Agreement initiative intends to restore balance to this commercial relationship. Ecuador sends over 200 different products to Canada, which primarily consist of minerals and metals—its leading export category—as well as shrimp, cocoa, flowers, and vehicles. Five sectors represent 82% of Ecuador’s total exports to Canada. Ecuadorian exporters hope that the new agreement will help value-added products find success in the Canadian market.

Strengthening Strategic Investment

The section of the agreement on investment protection stands out as particularly promising. While Canada remains outside the top group of foreign investors in Ecuador, its influence continues to grow with increased investment activity in the mining and energy sectors. The Canadian mining business Lundin Gold allocated $68 million for the expansion of the Fruta del Norte gold mine in 2024, which stands out as one of Ecuador’s major mining projects.

The Ecuador and Canada Strategic Trade Agreement is anticipated to lead to increased Canadian corporate entry into the Ecuadorian market. Investment priority areas are renewable energy, infrastructure development, technological advancement, and agribusiness. The investment chapter will provide legal certainty, which will make Ecuador a more appealing destination for investment from Canadian companies.

Regional and Geopolitical Alignment

Through its pursuit of this agreement, Ecuador strengthens its integration into regional commerce dynamics. For more than 15 years, Colombia, Peru, and Chile have enjoyed enhanced market access and improved investor relationships as a result of their free trade agreements with Canada. Ecuador faced a threat of reduced competitiveness and market share compared to its neighbors without an equivalent agreement.

The Ecuador and Canada Strategic Trade Agreement effort will enable Ecuador to build a strategic geopolitical plan that broadens its global partnerships. This development plays a crucial role in positioning Ecuador as a trustworthy and consistent force in worldwide trade activities. Through its accelerated efforts with Canada to finalize a strategic trade agreement, Ecuador positions itself as a key member of progressive open-market economies.

Tourism, Cultural Exchange, and Professional Mobility

The agreement aims to enrich cultural connections and promote direct interactions between individuals. The agreement contains cooperative elements for educational exchange and professional mobility, along with tourism development. Young professionals, alongside students and entrepreneurs, will experience simplified cross-border collaboration and knowledge sharing.

The agreement’s cooperation and e-commerce chapters aim to update current business methods while promoting digital commerce alongside technological advancements. Small and medium enterprises will gain advantages from Canadian institutions’ knowledge transfer and digital capacity-building programs.

Challenges and Strategic Considerations

Despite the optimism, challenges remain. Ecuador must improve its logistical systems and customs operations while ensuring product standards compliance to maximize benefits from the agreement. Small producers will need technical support and access to financial resources in order to fulfill Canadian import standards.

Canada has to determine how to integrate its emerging relationship with Ecuador while maintaining its existing regional partnerships. The implementation phase will focus primarily on aligning regulations, resolving disputes, and mutual recognition of standards.

Conclusion: A Transformational Milestone

Ecuador and Canada Strategic Trade Agreement negotiations represent a pivotal moment in Ecuador’s international trade strategy, rather than just a diplomatic act. Through this trade agreement, Ecuador expects to unlock its export potential alongside strengthened bilateral investments and improved integration into worldwide supply networks.

The completion of the trade agreement in 2025 between Ecuador and Canada provides businesses, policymakers, and civil society with a chance to develop a future that is more inclusive and prosperous while also resilient. This trade agreement may become a standard framework for upcoming bilateral and multilateral partnerships throughout the Americas, if properly impemented.

In conclusion, Ecuador and Canada Accelerate Strategic Trade Agreement efforts with clear objectives: This agreement aims to strengthen economic relationships while boosting competitiveness and encouraging sustainable growth. By continuing down this path, both nations will establish a new phase of bilateral cooperation that offers potential benefits for generations to come.

The Dominican Republic has taken a significant step toward transforming its logistics and trade infrastructure with a landmark agreement between the Dominican Government and DP World Dominicana. This partnership, centered around a planned US$760 million investment, reflects the country’s bold vision to become the leading logistics hub in the Caribbean and Latin America.

Strengthening the National Logistics Ecosystem

In a recent high-profile visit to the DP World Dominicana facilities in the Caucedo Peninsula, the Dominican Port Authority (APORDOM), led by Executive Director Jean Luis Rodríguez, reaffirmed the government’s full support for the development of the national logistics ecosystem. The purpose of the visit was to gain firsthand insight into the progress made in expansion projects and to discuss future collaboration that aligns with President Luis Abinader’s agenda to boost the country’s productive sectors.

“We must continue contributing and reinforcing the vision that the Dominican Republic should establish itself as the logistics and cruise hub of the region,” Rodríguez stated during the visit. “You have the full support of the Port Authority, in line with the mandate of the President to continue supporting the country’s productive sectors.”

The visit served not only as a show of government backing but also as a platform to share DP World Dominicana’s expansion roadmap and its contribution to the Dominican Republic’s global trade ambitions.

A Groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding

Central to the partnership between DP World Dominicana and the Dominican Government is the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which lays the foundation for negotiations surrounding the creation of the DP World Economic Zones. These zones aim to integrate a wide array of logistics services, including port operations, manufacturing facilities, and free trade zones, into a single, highly efficient ecosystem.

If fully realized, this development would position the Dominican Republic as the first country in the Americas to feature a logistics platform that brings together industrial parks and free zones with a state-of-the-art port terminal. The high level of integration between these facilities is expected to streamline operations, reduce costs, and elevate the country’s status as a competitive logistics and trade destination.

A US$760 Million Vision for the Future

DP World Dominicana has committed to investing a staggering US$760 million into the realization of this project. This substantial capital injection will cover the expansion of the Caucedo port terminal, the development of new free trade zone infrastructure, and the integration of advanced systems and security technologies to support efficient and secure international trade.

The initiative is not just about physical expansion—it is about reimagining how trade flows through the Dominican Republic. With this project, DP World Dominicana envisions a future where manufacturers, logistics providers, and global traders can all operate from one strategic location, benefiting from seamless integration and world-class infrastructure.

Early Investments Already Underway

In addition to the long-term vision, DP World Dominicana has already made considerable investments to enhance existing operations. From 2024 to date, the company has invested approximately US$66.6 million in a series of initiatives aimed at boosting port performance and security.

These include:

• Upgrades to operational infrastructure to support increased cargo volumes.
• Capacity expansions that allow the terminal to manage more TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units).
• Advanced security systems to ensure safe trade and compliance with international standards.
• Digitalization of port processes, which enables better tracking, transparency, and coordination across logistics chains.

These enhancements not only elevate the port’s current capacity but also demonstrate DP World Dominicana’s commitment to long-term, sustainable development.

A Model for Sustainable, Integrated Growth

“At DP World Dominicana, we are committed to a vision of sustainable growth to strengthen the position of the Caucedo port as a leading logistics hub in Latin America,” said Manuel Martínez, CEO of DP World Dominicana. “We are investing in the development of an innovative model that integrates services such as free trade zones, manufacturing, and logistics, all in one location, to boost the country’s connectivity and competitiveness. We value the support and collaboration of APORDOM, which plays a key role in consolidating the Dominican Republic as a critical player in regional trade.”

This vision aligns with broader global trends, where modern logistics hubs are increasingly adopting integrated models that combine physical infrastructure with digital solutions, creating environments where goods can move more quickly, securely, and with greater efficiency.

Port Capacity and Capabilities

Currently, the DP World Dominicana terminal boasts an operational capacity of 2.5 million TEUs per year. It is equipped with a modern fleet of port machinery, including:

Eleven gantry cranes are used for loading and unloading large containers from cargo ships.

Thirty-two rubber-tired gantry cranes (RTGs) enable efficient container stacking and yard management.

These capabilities position the Caucedo port among the most modern and competitive in the region, enabling it to handle high volumes of cargo traffic while maintaining rapid turnaround times.

The DP World Economic Zones: A Unique Model in the Americas

DP World Dominicana is also spearheading the development of the DP World Economic Zones, which aims to integrate industrial activities, logistics services, and port operations in one cohesive space. This model is unique in the Americas and offers substantial advantages for businesses looking to establish operations in the Dominican Republic.

To date, 150,000 square meters of space have already been developed within the economic zones. Plans are underway to expand this to 220,000 square meters by 2027, further enhancing the country’s ability to attract and support global manufacturers, logistics firms, and exporters.

By centralizing operations within a single geographic area, the DP World Economic Zones reduce logistical complexity and create opportunities for businesses to scale efficiently while enjoying the benefits of tax incentives, modern infrastructure, and proximity to a global port.

Government Commitment to Oversight and Collaboration

Executive Director Jean Luis Rodríguez emphasized the importance of government oversight and active engagement with key logistics stakeholders, such as DP World Dominicana. “This visit reinforces our commitment to the oversight and support of key stakeholders in the national port system. The initiatives being carried out by DP World position the Dominican Republic as a regional benchmark in integrated logistics and secure trade,” he said.

His remarks reflect the Dominican Government’s broader economic development strategy, which includes creating world-class infrastructure and attracting foreign direct investment to strategic sectors such as logistics, trade, and manufacturing.

A Collaborative and Forward-Thinking Delegation

The APORDOM delegation during the visit was composed of high-level representatives from various branches of the Port Authority, including:

• Alan Checo, Deputy Director
• Rolando Martínez, Advisor
• Adonis Modesto, Chief of Staff
• Indhira Corte, Logistics Director
• Moisés Richardson, Head of Access to Public Information

This robust participation underscores the government’s commitment to deep collaboration and transparent oversight in the execution of large-scale infrastructure projects.

On the side of DP World Dominicana, key figures included:

• Manuel Martínez, CEO
• Arlina Peña, Senior Director of Public Affairs and Communications
• Roberto Muñiz, Commercial Director
• Paola Firpo, Legal Director
• Héctor Incháustegui, representing Terra RD Partners

Together, these representatives discussed the future of port development, trade facilitation, and national competitiveness.

Looking Ahead: A Logistics Hub for the Hemisphere

The collaboration between the Dominican Government and DP World Dominicana is more than just a port expansion project—it is a bold move to position the Dominican Republic as a gateway for hemispheric trade. The integration of free trade zones, manufacturing capabilities, and digital logistics into a single ecosystem is a model that could set the standard for other countries in the region.

With continued investment, government support, and private-sector innovation, the Dominican Republic is well on its way to becoming the preeminent logistics and trade hub of the Caribbean and Latin America.

This US$760 million investment not only signals confidence in the country’s strategic location and stable business environment but also promises significant long-term economic benefits, including job creation, increased exports, and enhanced global competitiveness.

As the Dominican Republic moves forward with this ambitious plan, the world will be watching—and many may soon follow its example.

The Guatemalan private sector enthusiastically backs the new partnership between the United States and Guatemalan officials to modernize Puerto Quetzal, which represents a critical infrastructure development intended to reshape Guatemala’s economy. The partnership, which includes U.S. Army Corps of Engineers expertise, is heralded as a critical advancement to improve Guatemala’s logistics operations and establish it as a key regional trade player.

A Strategic Alliance for National Growth

The principal business coalition in Guatemala, known as the Coordinating Committee of Agricultural, Commercial, Industrial, and Financial Associations (CACIF), provided firm backing to the initiative. Through its public announcement, CACIF described the project as a strategic alliance that will enhance essential trade infrastructure and regional security.

Business leaders regard the plan to modernize Puerto Quetzal as essential to improving raw materials entry procedures, while eliminating cargo handling delays and enabling efficient exportation of Guatemalan products to international markets. They emphasize that this initiative stands as a construction project while serving as a base for future economic success.

Why Puerto Quetzal Matters

The primary maritime entrance point for Guatemala is Puerto Quetzal, which stands on the Pacific coast. Business leader Charles Bland asserts that 60% of national maritime cargo passes through Puerto Quetzal, demonstrating its fundamental position in Guatemala’s economy. The port manages more than 45% of Guatemala’s exported goods and approximately 30% of its imported products while connecting the country to key markets across Asia, North America, and South America.

The port has suffered from persistent operational delays and insufficient capacity for many years. Puerto Quetzal must modernize due to complaints from shipping and logistics companies about extended vessel wait times and unloading delays. Many businesses face increased expenses because ships experience delays of 20 to 50 days at port, which leads to supply chain inefficiencies that harm their competitiveness and reliability.

U.S. Involvement Brings Confidence and Transparency

The project benefits from a key partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, a globally respected organization with technical expertise and oversight capabilities. Business leaders in Guatemala view this partnership as a guarantee of high-level execution and responsible financial management.

Charles Bland described this announcement as one of the best they have ever received. The planned expansion gets support due to the involvement of both the U.S. government and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The partnership ensures financial accountability and guarantees the construction of a premier port necessary for economic development.

Bland pointed out that the plan to modernize Puerto Quetzal serves as an investment in Guatemala’s future economic competitiveness. The partnership between Guatemala and the United States shows Guatemala’s dedication to trade infrastructure improvements, while U.S. participation raises investor trust through expected transparency.

A Long-Term Vision Beyond Politics

The Guatemalan-American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) expressed strong backing for the agreement by calling it a clear demonstration of U.S.-Guatemala bilateral cooperation. “It is not just a commitment of the current administration,” AmCham said, calling the agreement a national project that represents a long-term vision.

The agreement covers a duration of 30 years so that future generations will benefit from its implementation. During his recent regional visit, U.S. Secretary Rubio reminded observers that “America First does not mean America alone,” according to AmCham, while Puerto Quetzal’s modernization signifies a shared dedication to regional prosperity and connectivity.

AGEXPORT: Building a Regional Logistics Hub

AGEXPORT issued swift praise for the initiative. The organization considers the effort to modernize Puerto Quetzal to be a critical move toward establishing Guatemala as the primary logistics hub in Central America. AGEXPORT regards the port’s expansion as essential for enhancing efficiency and expanding capacity to fulfill increasing trade needs.

The modernization of Puerto Quetzal will unlock Guatemala’s potential to export goods from manufacturing, agriculture, and mining industries. AGEXPORT stated that the initiative focuses on trade facilitation, innovation promotion, and export quality standard enhancement to increase competitiveness in international markets.

The Industrial Sector Urgently Needs Infrastructure Investment

The Guatemalan Chamber of Industry (CIG) expressed concern over Guatemala’s declining infrastructure investments throughout recent decades. The Chamber stated that efforts to modernize Puerto Quetzal will bring immediate and lasting industrial advantages through reduced transaction costs and improved reliability while expanding capacity.

The Chamber declared that strategic infrastructure development requires multiple types of efforts involving public entities, private companies, public-private partnerships, and international collaborations. Guatemala must extend its port facilities, along with road networks and energy infrastructure, to achieve effective competition in the world market.

Agricultural Sector to Benefit from Improved Competitiveness

The essential agricultural sector of Guatemala’s economy benefits greatly from the modernization of its ports. The Chamber of Agriculture of Guatemala (CAMAGRO) highlighted that insufficient logistics infrastructure has repeatedly delayed the transportation of fresh produce and agri-food exports to international customers.

Guatemala’s agricultural sector needs enhanced global market access to achieve successful modernization of Puerto Quetzal. CAMAGRO stated that quicker loading and unloading processes will maintain product quality while minimizing spoilage and enabling exporters to satisfy international buyers’ strict delivery schedules. CAMAGRO has established a definite route to increase agricultural competitiveness through support from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

A National Turning Point

The Puerto Quetzal modernization project represents more than a port improvement initiative because it serves as a pivotal moment for Guatemala’s economic development. The business sector sees this project as a catalyst for widespread infrastructure investments in roads, railways, and intermodal transportation systems.

The effort to modernize Puerto Quetzal reinforces Guatemala’s trade position in the region while fostering deeper integration with American partners and boosting goods transportation through its territory. As global supply chains evolve and nearshoring becomes more common, Guatemala’s location gains strategic importance through modern infrastructure support.

Building a Future of Economic Resilience

The modernization of Puerto Quetzal underlines Guatemala’s readiness to tackle 21st-century challenges in an economy where speed, transparency, and efficiency are essential. Business leaders from agriculture through industry to commerce stand together in endorsing this important infrastructure project.

By bringing in U.S. expertise and fostering long-term collaboration, Guatemala sends a message to international investors and trading partners: The nation maintains an open business environment while demonstrating dedication to reform and a strong resolve to create a resilient and prosperous future.

The agreement’s generated momentum gives stakeholders nationwide an important chance to push through wider infrastructure reforms as they work to improve logistics and connectivity. The development of Puerto Quetzal represents a comprehensive approach to advancing the entire nation of Guatemala—not merely improving port facilities.