Aguada Park in Uruguay has received a significant boost by announcing a multi-million-dollar investment to expand its office infrastructure. The project consists of constructing the Aguada Park Tower 4 building, which will cover approximately 10,000 square meters and introduce new urbanized areas for business and recreational purposes. This investment will enhance the capabilities of the free trade zone and further solidify its position as a leading business hub in Montevideo.

20-Year Extension Granted for Free Trade Zone Operations

The free trade zone Aguada Park in Uruguay has secured authorization from the Executive Branch to embark on this ambitious expansion, which entails a minimum investment of US$ 10 million. According to a resolution issued by the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF), “justified by the need to amortize the new investment to be made,” a 20-year extension has been granted for the operation of the free trade zone. This extension ensures long-term stability for businesses operating within Aguada Park in Uruguay and encourages further investment in its infrastructure and services.

Modernization and Infrastructure Enhancements

Aguada Park co-founder Roberto Yannuzzi emphasized the importance of this project, stating that the upcoming Tower 4 will incorporate various enhancements. In addition to modern office spaces, the development will feature a newly urbanized area with green recreational spaces, providing a more comfortable and dynamic environment for employees and visitors. The expansion will also include covered parking areas, dining facilities, new access points, escalators, and moving walkways, interconnecting various spaces within the zone. These additional amenities will contribute another 4,000 square meters, making the free trade zone more accessible and efficient.

Compliance and Approval Process for Expansion

Within the next six months, Aguada Park must submit an executive engineering and architectural project, a detailed descriptive and construction report, and either an approved construction permit or authorization for the early commencement of works granted by the Montevideo Municipality. This rigorous approval process ensures that all aspects of the development align with municipal regulations and urban planning standards.

Improved Connectivity and Business Integration

“The requested surface expansion is part of a comprehensive project that spatially and functionally connects the new site with the already authorized one through an aerial link that will unify the flow of people entering the free trade zone,” the MEF resolution detailed. This integration will streamline movement within Aguada Park, facilitating better connectivity between its different areas and improving accessibility for businesses operating within the zone.

Government Support and Economic Impact

According to the MEF, the project “contributes to the objectives of the free trade zone regime” and has already received a feasibility report from the capital’s municipal government. The National Directorate of Free Trade Zones has also indicated that the economic assessment of Aguada Park’s ongoing activities is “highly positive.” This endorsement highlights the significant role that Aguada Park plays in Uruguay’s financial landscape, fostering job creation and attracting international business ventures.

Strategic Location and High-Quality Office Space

In August of last year, the free trade zone requested an expansion of its prior environmental authorization to construct Aguada Park Tower 4, which will stand 50.4 meters tall in Montevideo. In that request, submitted to the Ministry of Environment, it was stated that the development’s purpose is to provide a new building adjacent to the existing one, “offering high-quality office spaces,” which would help “attract investors to develop remote work ventures linked to the international market, promoting high-quality employment.” This strategic initiative aligns with Uruguay’s broader goals of positioning itself as a competitive business destination in the region.

Construction Timeline and Capacity Expansion

The planned new construction in the La Aguada neighborhood will be located on the block adjacent to the current free trade zone on its southern side, with access from Colombia Street. The choice of location ensures that the expansion remains well-integrated with the existing infrastructure, facilitating seamless access for businesses and employees. Once fully operational, increasing the office space within Aguada Park aims to accommodate approximately 1,400 professionals, strengthening the zone’s capacity to support high-value business activities.

The construction of the new tower is expected to take approximately two years. Once completed, the office space expansion will represent a 37% increase, allowing Aguada Park to host more businesses and employees. The projected timeline for full occupancy is an additional three years, reflecting the anticipated demand for high-quality office space in Montevideo’s growing business ecosystem.

Aguada Park’s Role in Uruguay’s Economic Development

Aguada Park in Uruguay has established itself as a prominent free trade zone that attracts companies specializing in services, logistics, and technology. Its modern facilities, tax incentives, and strategic location have made it a preferred destination for multinational corporations and small enterprises looking to expand their operations in Latin America. With the latest investment and infrastructure improvements, Aguada Park is poised to enhance its appeal further, providing businesses with a state-of-the-art environment in which to thrive.

A Key Player in Uruguay’s Business Future

As Uruguay continues to promote economic growth and international investment, Aguada Park is crucial in supporting the country’s business development initiatives. The newly announced investment underscores the confidence in Aguada Park’s ability to serve as a hub for innovation and commerce. With a long-term operational extension, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and a strong commitment to sustainability and business growth, Aguada Park in Uruguay remains a key player in the country’s economic future.

Foreign Direct Investment in Chile Surpasses Historical Averages

According to Marca Chile, between January and September 2024, foreign direct investment (FDI) accumulated to US $11.76 billion, surpassing the average of the last 20 years by 5%. This sustained growth highlights the country’s strong economic fundamentals and attractiveness to global investors. Chile is a key investment destination due to its political stability, transparent regulatory environment, and strategic access to Latin American markets. The current market demands are increasingly stringent, pushing companies to evolve and adapt to meet customer needs. As a result, many brands are choosing to enter the Chilean market to strengthen their operations, a trend that has already become evident.

International Companies Drive Growth and Investment

In addition to Marca Chile’s report, a study by the Corporación de Bienes de Capital (CBC) projects that by 2028, 77% of private investment in Chile will be attributed to international companies. This reflects Chile’s growing attractiveness for foreign businesses, thanks to its stable economy, business-friendly regulations, and strategic geographic position as a gateway to Latin America. The influx of foreign capital and expertise fosters economic expansion and job creation, solidifying Chile’s position as a premier location for multinational corporations.

Chile is a key investment destination for companies looking to establish a foothold in South America. Its well-developed infrastructure, access to global markets, and consistent economic policies make it an ideal environment for business growth. By 2028, foreign firms will be responsible for most private investments in the country, demonstrating the confidence that global enterprises have in Chile’s long-term potential.

The “Glocal” Strategy: A Key Approach for Market Success

Understanding that combining global innovation and local adaptation can drive growth, many companies are implementing a “glocal” strategy that blends international expertise with local market needs. This method has proven fundamental in helping businesses connect with consumers across different markets and cultures.

One example of this strategy in action is Tork®, a Swedish brand and global leader in professional hygiene solutions, which is part of Essity. The company has successfully adopted this philosophy in Chile, demonstrating how a balance between global innovation and local adaptation can drive the growth of large corporations. By tailoring its products and services to meet the unique demands of the Chilean market, Tork® has strengthened its customer relationships and increased its competitive edge.

Tork® Expands Its Presence in Chile and Latin America

“We are a global leader and are present in over 130 countries, including Chile. This reflects our company’s commitment to the local market’s development. We are constantly looking for new opportunities, and establishing a strong presence in a key market like Chile is one of our priorities,” said Francisco Salamé, Commercial Director for the Southern Cone at Tork®.

Committed to providing optimal solutions to improve individual and collective health, the brand considers Latin America a key market, accounting for 8% of its total sales. Chile is a key investment destination for multinational corporations looking to expand in the region, and companies like Tork® recognize the country’s significant potential. In line with its goal of growing in emerging markets like Chile, the company is working to deepen its understanding of local customers and strategic geographic areas.

As part of this effort, Tork® collaborates closely with local distributors, representing approximately 70% of the company’s internal business model sales. Additionally, more than 80% of these distributors sell products through digital channels, reflecting the brand’s commitment to modernizing its supply chain and ensuring efficiency in product distribution.

Sustainable Innovation: Addressing Chile’s Water Scarcity

Furthermore, Tork® has invested in technology to address Chile’s growing water scarcity problem. The company has begun implementing a water filtration system to improve water quality and increase reuse, reinforcing its commitment to environmental sustainability. With Chile prioritizing sustainable economic growth, companies investing in green initiatives increasingly align with national policies and consumer expectations. This commitment to sustainability further strengthens the argument that Chile is a key investment destination for environmentally conscious corporations.

Regional Expansion: Strengthening Latin American Markets

These localized efforts are also being replicated in other Latin American countries where the brand has a presence. For example, in Argentina, Tork® recently installed a new production machine to meet local demand for high-capacity paper towels and hygiene products. This marks the first time Tork® products will be manufactured in Argentina, representing a significant milestone in the company’s regional expansion.

“We seek to expand our logistical presence to solidify our position in the most relevant markets, which is a significant step in that direction. Expanding our infrastructure allows us to make a greater impact, bringing us closer to our customers and improving service quality. For us, the customer is always the priority, and being close to them is essential to fulfilling that commitment,” Salamé emphasized.

With its robust economic framework and emphasis on sustainable development, Chile is a key investment destination for foreign companies aiming to establish long-term operations in Latin America. Its proactive business environment, strong legal system, and commitment to digital transformation make it an attractive choice for international investors.

Conclusion: Chile’s Strategic Role in Global Investment

As Chile continues solidifying its position as a top destination for foreign investment, businesses across various industries recognize the country’s potential. The increasing presence of international brands underscores Chile’s economic stability, market opportunities, and strategic importance in Latin America.

By leveraging glocal strategies, companies can thrive in this competitive and rapidly evolving business environment. Chile’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly climate and ongoing investments in infrastructure and sustainability will further reinforce its appeal as a premier hub for global enterprises. Given these factors, it is evident that Chile is a key investment destination, offering unparalleled advantages to companies seeking growth, innovation, and long-term success.

Uncertainty follows the United States’ publication of tariffs on steel and aluminum, which target automobiles, chips, and pharmaceuticals. The crisis triggered by the possibility that the United States will impose a 25% tariff on exports has caused investments worth 60 billion dollars to be paused in Mexico, revealed Francisco Cervantes, president of the Business Coordinating Council, during the presentation of the Hecho en México program.

Although he explained that “there is a lot of interest” in making trade agreements, he acknowledged that we are in difficult times due to the threat of US tariffs on Mexico on various products after the US government published executive orders on Monday to impose a 25% increase in steel and aluminum tariffs starting March 12 on Mexico, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, South Korea, the European Union, Japan, the United Kingdom, and Ukraine, among others, because these pose a risk to national security.

This will initially have consequences for Mexico’s metalworking and automotive industries, which depend heavily on these metals. Trump accuses Mexico of using primary aluminum from China and Russia to produce finished goods made from this material and receiving Chinese investments in the industry to manufacture goods that will be exported to the US. He also claimed that Mexican steel exports have increased “significantly.”

Francisco Cervantes considered that the crisis would be brief. Although there will be some “nice tugging,” Mexico will get through it, just as it did during Trump’s first term when he threatened to end the North American Free Trade Agreement, which resulted in a new agreement: the USMCA (T-MEC).

However, Miguel Ángel Landeros, president of the Mexican Council of Foreign Trade for the West, emphasized that the tariff increases affect both businesses and consumers in Mexico and the United States. “This is very bad… and it will particularly affect the automotive sector in Jalisco. The state’s second-largest export sector is automotive, with a significant hub in auto parts. We have a Honda assembly plant and important auto parts companies.”

The US president also anticipates that the new tariff on automobiles will be imposed starting April 2, which will be around 25%. He warned that the increases will equal or higher for chips, semiconductors, and pharmaceuticals: “And they will rise significantly throughout the year” against all countries, focusing on the European Union. “They don’t take our cars, they don’t take our agricultural products, they don’t take almost anything. We’re going to have to fix this, and we will.”

Sergio Oliveira, an expert in the automotive sector, noted that auto parts prices will impact consumers in general. He explained that a car assembled in Mexico contains many U.S.-made parts, and the same happens with vehicles manufactured in the US “All of that would be subject to tariffs so that prices would rise here and in the U.S.,” he warned. This would make things easier for the Chinese.

The Mexican Employers’ Confederation (Coparmex) rejected the unilateral imposition of tariffs, stating that they violated the USMCA and threatened regional integration. “It seriously affects the steel industry and the entire production chain linked to these essential inputs.”

Juárez Has Already Lost 45,000 Jobs

The tariffs announced by the United States on Mexican exports, in addition to pausing investments worth billions of dollars, have already caused the loss of at least 45,000 jobs in the epicenter of Mexico’s maquiladora industry: Ciudad Juárez. The Border Business Bloc reported that “Ciudad Juárez has already lost more than 45,000 jobs in recent months, and this causes other types of problems. We will also see, I mean, we don’t want to think about it, but there could be an inflationary problem,” warned representative Thor Salayandía.

In Ciudad Juárez, one of Mexico’s main export manufacturing centers, business leaders warn that the situation is critical due to a significant reduction in foreign investment and the possible closure of plants if the US tariffs on Mexico are implemented.

“No one wins, neither the United States nor Mexico, when you look at it from an economic perspective, from the viewpoint of the border, where we depend heavily on the maquiladora industry. Sixty percent of formal employment is involved in the maquiladora industry,” stated Salayandía.

Promoting National Consumption

Around 200 people, including singers such as Manuel Mijares, artists, athletes, creators, and businesspeople, will form the Hecho en México Promotional Council. This council will promote products made in Mexico nationally and internationally.

During the presentation, Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard explained that this brand would be promoted and that companies manufacturing products in the country could use the label.

The Hecho en México brand is for products manufactured, made, or assembled with entirely national inputs and/or whose manufacturing occurs in Mexico, regardless of the origin of the inputs.

If the US tariffs on Mexico were enacted, Mexico’s competitiveness in the manufacturing industry would be affected.

As the deadline set by Trump approaches, business owners and workers are urging the Mexican government to intervene to prevent an economic blow that they believe could have devastating consequences for the border region.

Conclusion

The potential implementation of US tariffs on Mexico has caused significant uncertainty, particularly regarding the steel, aluminum, automotive, chips, and pharmaceutical industries. These tariffs, which include a 25% increase on exports starting March 12, could impact investments worth $60 billion and already have led to a loss of 45,000 jobs in Ciudad Juárez, a key manufacturing hub. Mexican business leaders are concerned that the tariffs will disrupt the economy, especially in the automotive sector, which heavily depends on US-made parts. Although some leaders remain optimistic, drawing comparisons to previous trade challenges, the tariffs threaten regional integration and could increase consumer prices in Mexico and the US. The Mexican government has been urged to intervene to mitigate potential economic damage, especially in border regions. The Hecho en México campaign has been introduced to promote national products, but if the tariffs are enacted, Mexico’s competitiveness in manufacturing could be severely impacted.

With a 16% increase in exports and a 27% reduction in imports, Argentina achieves a trade surplus of $230 million with the United States in 2024. This marked the first time in nearly two decades that the South American nation has reversed its long-standing trade deficit with the world’s largest economy. Over the past few decades, Argentina has consistently maintained a trade deficit with the United States, with an annual average shortfall of approximately $2.7 billion.

Argentina Regains a Trade Surplus with the United States

Industrial manufactures and fuel-related products dominate Argentina’s exports to the United States, positioning the U.S. as the country’s second-largest export destination, surpassed only by Brazil. These two key sectors account for nearly 70% of Argentina’s total external sales. Among the primary goods exported to the United States are crude oil, gasoline, gold, aluminum, steel, lithium carbonate, wines, honey, beef, and seafood.

However, in a significant development for Argentina’s metallurgical industry, the U.S. government under President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on all aluminum and steel imports, a move expected to impact Argentine producers significantly. In 2023, Argentina exported aluminum to the United States valued at $505 million, with an annual average of $427 million between 2018 and 2023. Similarly, exports of cast iron, iron, and steel pipes to the U.S. reached $60 million in 2023, with a six-year average of $127 million between 2018 and 2024.

The Role of Argentina’s Provinces in U.S. Trade

At the provincial level, between 2018 and 2023, Chubut emerged as Argentina’s most commercially engaged province with the United States, directing 37% of its exports to the U.S. market. Additionally, provinces such as Neuquén, Santa Cruz, Misiones, Corrientes, Mendoza, Tucumán, and Tierra del Fuego, Antártida e Islas del Atlántico Sur each allocated over 20% of their shipments to the United States. In 2023 alone, the U.S. solidified its position as the principal trading partner for six provinces: Salta, Tucumán, Misiones, Corrientes, Río Negro, and Chubut.

Factors Behind the Newly Achieved Trade Surplus

Despite the positive trade balance, it is essential to recognize that Argentina achieved a trade surplus with the United States in 2024 primarily due to a contraction in imports rather than an unprecedented export surge. Approximately 73% of the surplus is attributed to reduced external purchases. This import decline was fueled by the expansion of domestic energy production and a deceleration in Argentina’s economic activity during the first half of the year.

The United States remains Argentina’s third-largest source of imports, accounting for 10% of the total in 2024. Over recent years, Argentina has worked to recover its imports of capital goods from the U.S. after hitting a low point in 2020. In 2024, purchases of capital goods from the United States increased by 7%, reaching their highest level in six years. In contrast, the importation of intermediate goods saw a 20% decline, settling 12% below the five-year average. Furthermore, the energy trade surplus contributed nearly 60% reduction in fuel and lubricant imports from the United States.

The Significance of U.S. Imports for Argentina’s Economy

Argentina relies heavily on imports from the United States for several key sectors of its economy. Among the most significant imported products are automobiles, automotive components, industrial machinery, pharmaceuticals, diesel fuel, capital goods components, tires, insecticides, fertilizers, and plastic-based manufactured goods. Given Argentina achieves a trade surplus primarily through reduced imports, the anticipated economic recovery in 2025 may lead to a resurgence in demand for these essential goods throughout the year.

U.S. Foreign Direct Investment in Argentina

Beyond trade, capital flows between Argentina and the United States play a crucial role in the bilateral economic relationship. The United States remains the largest foreign investor in Argentina, accounting for 18% of the country’s accumulated foreign direct investment (FDI) as of the first half of 2024. With an investment stock surpassing $30 billion, U.S. investment in Argentina has increased by 10% compared to 2023. This growth underscores the confidence that American businesses continue to have in Argentina’s economic potential despite the challenges posed by economic fluctuations and policy shifts.

 Outlook for Argentina-U.S. Trade Relations

While achieving a trade surplus marks a notable milestone for Argentina, the sustainability of this balance remains uncertain. If Argentina’s economy rebounds in 2025 as projected, the rise in imports—particularly of capital and intermediate goods—could offset current surpluses. Additionally, ongoing trade policy changes in the United States, such as the recently imposed tariffs on aluminum and steel, may present new challenges for Argentina’s export sector.

However, Argentina achieves a trade surplus at a time when deeper economic cooperation with the United States could provide new investment opportunities. The strengthening trade and investment ties between the two nations signal potential for further collaboration. As Argentina navigates global trade dynamics and domestic economic reforms, its relationship with the United States will remain a critical pillar of its economic strategy.

Conclusion

Argentina achieved a trade surplus with the United States in 2024, marking a turning point in the economic relationship between the two nations. This development highlights the shifting dynamics of Argentina’s trade, primarily driven by a contraction in imports rather than a substantial export surge. While industrial manufactures and fuel-related products continue to anchor Argentina’s external sales, the trade surplus reflects structural changes in the country’s domestic production and economic conditions.

As Argentina achieves a trade surplus, it underscores the importance of maintaining balanced trade policies that support local industries while fostering international partnerships. However, the sustainability of this surplus remains uncertain significantly, as Argentina’s economy stabilizes and import demand for capital and intermediate goods rebounds. Given that Argentina achieves a trade surplus primarily through reduced imports, future trade balances will depend on economic recovery and strategic investments in key industries. U.S. foreign direct investment will be crucial in shaping Argentina’s long-term economic trajectory, reinforcing the deep-rooted economic ties between the two countries. As Argentina achieves a trade surplus after nearly two decades of deficits, policymakers must focus on fostering export growth and diversifying trade to sustain this newfound equilibrium in the years ahead.

Record-Breaking Exports of Medical Supplies in 2024

The Dominican Republic has achieved a significant milestone in its trade relationship with the United States, exporting over $1.725 billion of medical supplies and equipment in 2024. This figure, equivalent to over 100 billion pesos, makes medical supplies the country’s top export category. According to Dominican Ambassador to the United States, Sonia Guzmán, this remarkable growth underscores the Dominican Republic medical device industry’s expanding role in the global healthcare supply chain.

A Booming Medical Device Manufacturing Sector

According to data from the Dominican Association of Free Zones (ADOZONA), the Dominican Republic’s medical device industry is home to 40 medical supply manufacturing companies employing over 32,000 workers. These companies play a vital role in producing essential healthcare equipment, including blood transfusion devices, blood pressure monitors, needles, catheters, electrodiagnostic equipment, sterile sutures, and ostomy instruments.

Guzmán highlighted that the country has secured its position as the third-largest exporter of medical supplies to the United States in the region, surpassed only by Mexico and Costa Rica. This success has increased interest in developing the Dominican Republic as a biomedical hub, positioning the country as a key center for operations, logistics, and medical material distribution.

Positioning the Dominican Republic as a Biomedical Hub

The initiative to establish the Dominican Republic as a biomedical hub has gained momentum among key stakeholders in the healthcare and logistics industries. This effort was discussed in detail during a recent meeting led by Dr. Amado Alejandro Báez, Executive Advisor for Health and Well-being. The meeting brought together investors, medical professionals, U.S. authorities, and Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) representatives.

Dr. Báez emphasized the Dominican Republic medical device industry’s potential to become a logistics hub for the Americas, particularly in the classification, transportation, dispatch, and distribution of medical goods. He also expressed his intention to establish stronger connections with leaders in research, investment, and nearshoring, ensuring that the Dominican Republic remains a key player in the commercialization of medical innovation.

Government Support and Investment Incentives

The Dominican government is actively working to enhance the country’s appeal as a biomedical hub by improving regulatory frameworks and offering investment incentives. During the meeting, key officials, including Carlos Pimentel, Director of Procurement and Contracting, and Johannes Kelner, Deputy Minister of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs, outlined investment opportunities and regulatory strategies to attract international businesses.

Representatives from ProDominicana, the General Directorate of Medicines, Food, and Products (DIGEMAPS), and the Dominican Pharmaceutical Industries contributed insights into the nation’s evolving medical manufacturing landscape. These discussions highlighted how regulatory support, streamlined business operations, and a skilled workforce can further bolster the Dominican Republic medical device industry and strengthen its role in the global healthcare supply chain.

Strengthening Ties with U.S. Partners and International Institutions

The Dominican delegation also met with representatives from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to present their proposal for the logistics hub. Their discussions focused on securing institutional support and strengthening healthcare and medical digitalization integration.

In addition to IDB representatives, key attendees included members of the U.S. program America’s RISE, such as Patty Wu, Dr. Deus Bazira, Director of Global Health at Georgetown University, and business development leaders from Vitro Diagnostica, Carna Health, and Vision Americas International. These collaborations will enhance the Dominican Republic medical device industry’s ability to attract investment, develop cutting-edge medical technologies, and increase exports.

Global Players in the Dominican Republic’s Medical Manufacturing Sector

Ambassador Guzmán reiterated that among the 40 medical device manufacturing companies operating in the country, seven of the world’s 20 leading medical firms have already established a presence in the Dominican Republic. This underscores the nation’s attractiveness to major global players, who recognize its strategic location, cost-effective workforce, and favorable trade agreements with the U.S.

The Future of the Dominican Republic’s Medical Exports

With a strong foundation in medical manufacturing and growing government support, the Dominican Republic is well-positioned to expand its influence in the healthcare industry. Industry leaders are optimistic that the country will solidify its status as a top-tier biomedical hub in the Americas with continued investment in logistics, research, and innovation.

As the Dominican Republic continues to increase its exports, policymakers and industry stakeholders remain committed to fostering growth, creating high-quality jobs, and maintaining its reputation as a reliable supplier of essential medical equipment to the global market.

Conclusion

The Dominican Republic’s medical device industry has solidified its position as a leading exporter of medical supplies to the U.S., reaching a record-breaking $1.725 billion in exports in 2024. With 40 medical device manufacturers employing over 32,000 workers, the country is now the third-largest regional exporter, following Mexico and Costa Rica. Efforts to establish the Dominican Republic as a biomedical hub have gained traction, driven by government initiatives, investment incentives, and collaborations with key stakeholders such as the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and U.S. institutions.

Industry leaders emphasize the country’s potential as a logistics and distribution center for medical goods in the Americas, further supported by a favorable regulatory framework and strong U.S. trade ties. Major global medical firms have already established operations in the country, recognizing its strategic location and cost-effective workforce. Meetings with government officials and business leaders have highlighted investment opportunities and strategies to strengthen the country’s role in the healthcare supply chain. As the Dominican Republic continues expanding, its medical experts, policymakers, and industry stakeholders remain committed to fostering innovation, attracting investment, and ensuring long-term growth, reinforcing its reputation as a reliable supplier of high-quality medical equipment.