The adoption of a robotics law could make El Salvador the first country in the world to do so

Salvadoran lawmakers have advanced AI and robotics policy in Latin America and around the world with a new initiative to regulate artificial intelligence and robotics. On February 28, the country’s Legislative Assembly approved the Artificial Intelligence Law, which sets the legal and regulatory foundation for the responsible adoption and use of AI technologies.

At the same time, the National Bitcoin Office of El Salvador (ONBTC) has also drafted a proposed Robotics Law, which could make the small Central American country the first in the world to regulate the use and development of physical AIs. The Robotics Law and the Artificial Intelligence Law are landmark initiatives that signal a major technological transformation for El Salvador.

The AI Law as It Stands

The Artificial Intelligence Law was approved by the Salvadoran legislature at the end of February and is expected to be put in place in the coming months, according to an official statement by the country’s National Bitcoin Office (ONBTC). ONBTC describes the legislation as “bold and progressive” and states that it is intended to make AI a practical part of the Salvadoran economy as soon as possible.

The new legislation will set out guidelines and standards for AI use in multiple sectors, including electric power, transportation, and national security. The AI law, which was spearheaded by ONBTC, provides a legal and institutional basis for the rapid and safe adoption of AI.

ONBTC has stated that the law, among other things, “aims to regulate the use and development of Artificial Intelligence with the goal of promoting its use for the benefit of Salvadoran society.” The law goes even further, ONBTC says, with a view to “permitting a rapid and responsible” adoption of AI across multiple sectors.

In March, Salvadoran government representatives, led by President Nayib Bukele, highlighted the advancement of AI and the broader technology sector as critical national priorities while also laying out steps to speed the adoption of AI. Among other things, the law will also establish an institutional framework, ONBTC said, as well as “research centers such as the development of intelligence laboratories and research centers” and the creation of a National Artificial Intelligence Agency (ANIA) that will, among other things, be responsible for monitoring compliance with the law.

The New AI Law Explained

El Salvador advances AI and robotics policy with the new AI Law, which has the following elements and key points:

Purpose. The law makes it clear that AI technologies must be applied for the public good and in a responsible way. “The purpose of this law is to regulate the use and development of Artificial Intelligence with the goal of promoting its use for the benefit of Salvadoran society, facilitating a rapid and responsible adoption,” the ONBTC explained in an official statement.

Scope. The law covers the use and development of artificial intelligence for both private sector and state actors. “Artificial intelligence is used and developed both by the State and by the private sector,” the law reads, adding that AI will be applied in government operations, including electricity distribution, electric transportation, and national defense and security.

Research and Standards. The law calls for the creation of “centros de investigación e inteligencia artificial” (research centers and artificial intelligence centers) and the development of a legal entity called the National Artificial Intelligence Agency (ANIA) to manage and monitor compliance with the law. ANIA will also facilitate compliance with other national standards and global best practices.

Permitting. Licenses will be required for AI development and application in a broad range of operations. The law also calls for ANIA to “regulate the authorization, supervision, control, and revocation of intelligence laboratories, research centers and/or centers dedicated to research, development, and experimentation of Artificial Intelligence, as well as those that have them as a support function.”

Expectations for the Robotics Law

El Salvador advances AI and robotics policy in a potentially groundbreaking way by also seeking to adopt a specific Robotics Law that, if passed by the Salvadoran legislature and put in place, would regulate the development and use of physical robots or AI entities.

According to the country’s ONBTC, the robotics law is intended to create a “clear, ethical and transparent” regulatory framework for the deployment of physical AI. “Physical AI refers to any form of intelligence that has a material dimension, such as drones, robots, or androids that may be used to interact with the environment or people,” ONBTC said, adding that the robotics law will be enacted before wide-scale commercial deployments of physical AIs.

The Onus is on El Salvador

Salvadoran lawmakers are taking an ambitious and risk-ready approach to AI regulation, and one that would, if successful, put the country at the very forefront of innovation. At this stage, the country already leads on AI policy in Central America and the wider Latin American region, having taken steps to make Bitcoin legal tender and create a robust infrastructure for its adoption.

El Salvador advances AI and robotics policy in a very significant way by taking steps to legislate its use. The development of AIs in all their forms, including the so-called “strong AIs,” is proceeding at a fast pace and will almost certainly be widespread before we realize it. Instead of waiting until then, El Salvador is regulating them before that happens and showing regional leadership in AI.

Peru has been attracting investments for projects in the Amazon in recent years, with the aim of positioning itself as a leader in the region in terms of sustainable development and environmental conservation. The country has identified 40 projects in the Amazon Basin, of which 13 are considered to be viable. In that sense, it ranks as the second country with the most projects in the Amazon Basin.

Camilo Carrillo, associate partner for infrastructure at EY Peru, shared some of the most promising investments in the Amazon region with The Peru Report. Among them are projects related to ecotourism, environmental conservation and protection, and biodiversity. One of them, with the most visibility, is the Choquequirao Cable Car project.

Choquequirao, an archaeological site in the Cusco region and considered the “sister city” of Machu Picchu, has been difficult to visit by traditional tourist circuits due to its difficult access. However, this would change with the arrival of the cable car.

There are also several projects related to tourism in other Amazonian destinations. For instance, cableways to be installed in Ahuashiyacu, Sauce Lake, or Gran Pajatén Archaeological Complex, among others, would allow a more comfortable way of accessing these places and generating tourism in them.

On the other hand, some projects in conservation and biodiversity have been listed, especially those with the status of protected natural areas. In this context, it is estimated that there are around 400 sites that receive this designation.

In Peru, 23 investment promotion entities are dedicated to promoting projects in the Amazon. Peru’s Amazon includes all projects implemented with public-private cooperation (PPP), as well as the preparation of studies and contracts carried out exclusively by the State and those in the project pipeline.

Economic Activities in the Amazon Basin

Agriculture, forestry, fishing, aquaculture, and renewable energies are among the main economic activities related to the Amazon. On the one hand, the production of coffee, cacao, medicinal plants, and other traditional or innovative crops is a sustainable practice that can be included in the exploitation of the Amazon basin.

Forestry is also a widely used resource and is beginning to be regulated. Sustainable timber production would be an option to promote, in the same way as the fishing and aquaculture activity has been, through sustainable fishing concessions and aquaculture projects.

On the other hand, as the region represents a great biodiversity and natural habitat of protected native species, eco-friendly and community-tourism projects are viable, especially in places that currently have no influx of visitors. Infrastructure projects in general are also essential, as they are key elements for long-term value generation for communities and investors.

Peru is the Second Country with the Most Projects in the Amazon Basin

In the most recent report “Profile of Public-Private Synergies in Environmental Assets: The Case of the Amazon Basin,” from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Peru is highlighted as the second country with the most projects, just behind Brazil, but with the greatest development potential.

The report pointed out that while Brazil has the most projects identified in the Amazon with 104, followed by Peru with 40, the country with the most developed projects is Peru, which has 13, followed by Brazil with 11.

Projects that favor the development of the Amazon are growing in recent years in Peru. The National Institute of Natural Resources (INRENA) pointed out that between 1994 and 2021, the country’s total investment in hydroelectric projects in this region amounted to 1,295.1 million soles, of which 37.5% came from foreign companies.

Projects in the Amazon with Most Investment

The Amazon, the largest river basin in the world, covers about 7 million square kilometers, making it the largest drainage system on the planet. It encompasses parts of eight Latin American countries.

As a key component of the global ecosystem, it provides the environmental services that humanity depends on, including water regulation, the climate, and a home for an immense array of plants and wildlife.

Challenges for Investment Projects in the Amazon Basin

Projects in the Amazon Basin face a range of challenges in Peru. According to IDB, these include some that have a longer-term or more structural nature, such as legal and institutional uncertainties, lack of operational capacity, and environmental impact studies.

The presence of illegal economies is also one of the problems most often pointed out by different sectors and institutions. “There are illegal economies that are damaging the rule of law. Illegal mining, illegal logging, drug trafficking… in some cases, these activities continue to be present in the jungle,” said Camilo Carrillo.

The projects related to infrastructure for the mining industry are one of the areas that continue to develop the most despite these problems, according to Carrillo, who was invited as a guest of Peru’s National Society of Industries (SNI) to share information about the development of projects in the Amazon basin.

Private Investment Projects in the Amazon

One of the most significant points in the entry of private investment into projects in the Amazon region is the recent public-private partnership (PPP) projects in the tourism and mining sector. It has also included various conservation projects.

The government’s infrastructure promotion entities play a key role. Peru’s Amazon has a wide and diversified pipeline of projects promoted by 23 investment promotion entities dedicated to working in the country’s Amazon.

Juan José Cárdenas, an infrastructure expert, noted that in Peru, there are projects of this nature in sectors such as health and education, with significant execution of PPP projects. The same does not occur in protected natural areas or in projects that also contemplate mining exploitation.

Cárdenas said that a business model similar to PPPs in projects in the Amazon basin could work very well and help scale them up. One of the most important points is to begin to seek channels for moving private investments in this direction, which, added to good legislation, could be developed in the country.

In Brazil, institutions such as the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio) have been key. In the case of this country, the environmental issues are also generated by the “large presence of the State in illegal mining and logging.”

Comparison with Brazil, the Only Country with More Projects in the Amazon Basin

Brazil is the country with the most developed projects. In comparison, according to Camilo Carrillo, Brazil has ICMBio, “which is a state institution that works very similar to what ProInversión is for Peru.”

Projects in the Amazon: Future Prospects

As previously mentioned, and according to EY Peru, a key point will be that Peru is expected to count on the support of different regional actors, governments, international cooperation and organizations, civil society, and the private sector.

Peru needs to take advantage of the opportunities, be aware of the barriers, and make decisions and policies to expand and increase access to sustainable finance in the country.

Peru’s priority in the Amazon will be to channel private investment in priority areas such as conservation, nature-based solutions, sustainable agriculture, environmental infrastructure, and responsible mining.

The future perspective on investment in projects in the Amazon is to generate innovative solutions to the environmental crisis by relying on private financing. This includes new instruments for environmental performance bonds and a guarantee fund. “Long-term financing and green bonds should be other types of instruments to start channeling the private sector,” said Camilo Carrillo.

In terms of legislative alignment, it would be relevant to link the financing of the projects with the creation of the High Climate Council or the Organic Law for the Amazon. However, it is indicated that Peru is not behind in this matter, but needs a relevant institution focused on the Amazon, similar to ICMBio in Brazil.

Panama is again being noticed in the international arena. Mercosur announced that Panama is joining the Southern Common Market as an associate member. The agreement was formally signed in December 2024 after both countries had approved the Economic Complementation Agreement.

Mercosur has finally chosen to bring one of the most strategically important countries in the Americas, Panama, into its economic and political fold. With free trade, nearshoring, and digitization being major geopolitical and business drivers, it is critical for Latin American economies to modernize their institutions and regulatory frameworks, creating more integration with neighbors and win-win solutions that will bring opportunities for growth. Mercosur believes that Panama joining the bloc as an associate member will contribute to consolidating and deepening Latin American and Caribbean integration.

Panama Joins Mercosur and Its Opportunities

Panama, a country whose geographic position gives it great logistical, economic, and diplomatic advantages, is part of many international organizations such as ALADI, the WTO, APEC, and the OECD. This is no longer an emerging or growth economy, but rather an economy with a history that could be considered solid.

How, then, can Panama’s joining Mercosur as an associate member benefit both Panama and Mercosur itself? By recognizing its purpose, it opens a real scenario of opportunities. The question then arises: What does Panama gain from being a member of Mercosur?

Mercosur in Numbers

Mercosur was established by Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay in 1991, with the goal of advancing towards the free movement of goods, services, and production factors, having a common external tariff, and coordinating trade and foreign investment policy in the international arena.

If we treat Mercosur as a single economy, it is the fifth-largest economy in the world, with 290 million inhabitants. If Mercosur were a country, it would be in fourth place on the list of the most populous countries in the world, between the United States and China. Panama’s joining Mercosur gives it access to this demographic dividend.

Membership Status in Mercosur

Mercosur grants two levels of membership. Full membership has a commitment to community integration, while associate membership is able to sign trade agreements with Mercosur without necessarily committing to the whole program that full membership requires. Panama, joining Mercosur as an associate member, could be a good alternative to allow itself to grow and build momentum to meet full membership conditions in the future.

What Does Panama Gain by Joining Mercosur?

Panama provides Mercosur with several unique advantages. These include strategic geographic location, state-of-the-art logistical and infrastructural assets, international economic credibility, and respect for international standards of governance and transparency. In addition to positioning itself as a logistical axis between the two oceans, Panama also takes pride in being a financial hub, sometimes referred to as the “Singapore of the Americas,” and a dollarized economy that is very stable in the eyes of the investor community.

Minister of Commerce and Industries Julio Moltó, declared that “joining Mercosur will give us the necessary institutional support to modernize our productive matrix and better position Panama as a safe and competitive destination for foreign direct investment.”

When Panama joins Mercosur, an integrated and more diverse market awaits. An integrated Mercosur, with Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, and now Panama, offers a multitude of opportunities for cross-border trade, investment, and cooperation. For Panama, Mercosur is not just a market but a gateway to the broader South American region.

Panama and ALADI

Panama is an active member of the Committee of Representatives of the Latin American Integration Association (ALADI), and its relations with Mercosur are complemented by the goals set within this multilateral framework. María Fábrega, Vice President of the Committee of Representatives of ALADI, stated, “We have the challenge and the responsibility to strengthen our links, but not only as a logistical bridge. I want to be a digital bridge. I also want to be a financial bridge to move forward with infrastructure projects, productive chains, innovation, and mining. We have to look at these elements.”

What Are the Benefits of Mercosur for Panama?

The logic of Mercosur to accept Panama as an associate member, beyond the fact that it is looking to reenergize itself and internationalize more, is that it needs more connectivity. When Mercosur integrates Panama into its structure, it must first be aware that it is obtaining one of the most advanced economies in the region, and the most internationally respected, with a very large logistical, infrastructural, and diplomatic dimension.

On the other hand, although at the moment Mercosur does not directly open the doors to its market for Panama, with Panama joining Mercosur, these ties of international commerce can be seen as the basis for further trade agreements. An improved logistical and financial landscape that Panama offers can provide benefits not only to Mercosur but to the other two continents that trade with it—Europe and Asia.

The Regional Scope and Public Support in Panama

A recent study by the University of Panama confirms that most of the public is in favor of the country’s Mercosur membership, not just on the specific case of Mercosur, but on the overall economic integration agenda, and generally supports development policies focused on dialogue and the exchange of national and international trade.

A 70% approval for international integration, seen as an inherent Panamanian interest, consolidates itself as a strategic foreign policy that could be extended to many more countries. A development agenda with these approvals will have the institutional and political support to project a vision of national growth in time.

Integration is not only trade but the future of diplomacy. The next step for Panama with Mercosur would be to develop a diplomatic agenda focused on multilateralism, coordination, or just being able to act as a facilitator between two or more economic, social, cultural, or digital worlds.

Panama Joins Mercosur for Latin America’s Nearshoring

One of the great and valuable lessons of the last decade has been the great global value of resilience. With the new orders in trade and geopolitics, including de-globalization and self-sufficiency, coordination and convergence in Latin America represent a valuable asset and should represent a strategic consensus in the coming years.

Panama joining Mercosur, as well as  ALADI as a trading bloc creates opportunities and an international presence. However, it is necessary for the Central American nation to connect more extensively in many more sectors.

The World We Are Gearing Up For

We cannot deny the scale and velocity of the fourth industrial revolution. We cannot avoid the new globalizations, the new micro-globalizations that are beginning to form at the regional level and that are complemented by the development of e-commerce. Because digitization is a geopolitical and business issue, and integration is a driver in trade, production, logistics, transport, and commerce.

The different approaches taken to open economies, production chains, e-commerce, energy, and digital data transmission are all experiences of new geoeconomics that are consolidating and that will be at the center of Mercosur, or its main members, and Panama in the coming years.

Mercosur as a Regional Headquarters

Panama is already advancing as a crossroads and a trade hub, not only geographically but also as a point of economic interchange or coordination. If the central image of globalization, in the midst of de-globalization, is the platform or the headquarters in which the value is placed, then Mercosur and other regional initiatives, such as ALADI, represent an opportunity that we must manage and develop.

Mercosur with Panama as an associate member and its proposed set of principles and agreements can be used to promote greater trade facilitation and complementation in the nearshoring scheme that Mercosur economies are working on. A nearshoring scheme that is not only a geopolitical and business issue, but one that is also in demand among Latin Americans, where the concept of closer neighbors and different markets opens up new opportunities.

Mercosur is Ready for the New World and It’s Digital

Digital trade is one of the great beneficiaries of the Mercosur-Panama agreement. In Mercosur, or its prominent members, we must have a coordinated strategy to achieve new business arrangements in the exchange of commerce.

As physical, maritime, road, and air trade, logistics, and traffic are advancing, cross-border electronic-commerce platforms or infrastructure, regulations, logistics coordination, standards, taxation, electronic certification, digital identities, fast payments, and many other experiences and technologies, in which digitization is increasingly adding value in a changing international environment, a productive sector becomes a geopolitical driver in production and trade.

Panama Joins Mercosur, Mercosur, and the Region Benefit

Mercosur could play a much more strategic role in mediating Latin American integration. And what for? For that difference. As many geopolitical and business experts know, and as Panamanian entrepreneurs know, Panama joining Mercosur and Mercosur can and must play a strategic role in the present and the future as a virtual, geopolitical, and business framework and be a bridge in the business world, not only geographically between Asia, Europe, and Latin America.

In short, when Panama joins Mercosur as a full member, it will begin a process that is already underway. It is necessary to connect more closely, more extensively, and more electronically, across many more sectors.

Latin America has come a long way, and nowhere is this more evident than in the emergence of Latin American companies on Wall Street. From e-commerce and fintech giants to mining and energy stalwarts, these companies represent the diversity of the region and its strategic importance in the world. In this post, we will look at the 10 most valuable Latin American companies on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), including the sectors they represent, the drivers of their growth, and the global stage they operate on. With increasing interest in the region, these companies showcase the potential and resilience of Latin America.

Diverse Industry Mix

Latin America’s most valuable companies on Wall Street represent a healthy mix of old and new. According to Bloomberg data, the industry breakdown of the top 10 companies looks like this:

• Consumer & Retail: 3 companies
• Financial Services: 2 companies
• Mining: 2 companies
• Technology: 1 company
• Energy: 1 company
• Telecommunications: 1 company

This mix showcases the impact of both legacy and tech-driven companies in the region.

1. MercadoLibre (MELI) The king of e-commerce

$121.8 billion

Argentinian MercadoLibre is the leading Latin American company on Wall Street. Nicknamed “The Amazon of Latin America,” MercadoLibre is the largest online commerce and fintech company in the region. Its strength is twofold: e-commerce and fintech. The company’s fintech arm, Mercado Pago, has created a robust financial infrastructure and a range of services, including digital wallets and consumer loans. Its logistics arm, Mercado Envios, has been instrumental in overcoming delivery challenges in the region and gives it a unique advantage. Its investment in building its own logistics and payment rails has allowed the company to control the entire customer experience and earn loyalty in the long run.

2. Petrobras (PBR) Energy behemoth from Brazil

~$95 billion

The largest oil company in Brazil, Petrobras, has long been one of the anchors of the Latin American energy industry. Leveraging expertise in deepwater drilling and the ability to operate in pre-salt oil fields, Petrobras has greatly benefited from higher crude prices and has been operationally efficient. Although the company has a checkered history in terms of governance, it has since undertaken a series of actions to streamline its operations and become more transparent. Petrobras is still one of the most profitable oil companies in the world and a go-to stock for energy-focused investors.

3. Itaú Unibanco (ITUB) digital transformation in banking

~$60 billion

The largest private bank in Brazil, Itaú Unibanco, is a pioneer in the transformation of the financial sector in Latin America. A leader in profitability, the bank has also been at the forefront of digital transformation in banking in the region. According to financial analyst Paula Chavs, the bank is blending traditional banking with digital platforms effectively. Its mobile apps and AI-powered customer service have increased customer engagement and decreased operational costs. As one of the trusted names in Brazil and an expanding presence in other Latin American countries, Itaú is among the most promising Latin American companies on Wall Street for long-term investors.

4. Vale S.A. (VALE) Mining powerhouse with global reach

~$55 billion

Based in Brazil, Vale is one of the world’s leading producers of iron ore and nickel, key materials for the production of steel and batteries for electric vehicles. With a focus on sustainability and diversifying its supply chains, the company is investing in environmentally friendly mining practices and expanding its presence in the renewable energy space. Although Vale has faced challenges with regulations and environment-related incidents, it is one of the pillars of the global mining industry.

5. Walmart de México y Centroamérica (WMMVY) resilient retailer

~$53 billion

A powerhouse in Mexico and Central America, Walmart de México y Centroamérica, or Walmex, dominates the retail landscape in the region. With its business model centered on high volume and low cost, Walmex’s widespread footprint has served the urban and rural populations of the region. According to financial analyst Paula Chavs, Walmex has also focused on its digital transformation. The company has invested in omnichannel retail, Bodega Aurrera app-based shopping, and online delivery services which helped it weather the storm and stay afloat in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Walmex demonstrates how Latin American companies on Wall Street can merge global strategies with local execution to succeed.

6. América Móvil (AMX) telecommunications powerhouse

~$50 billion

Owned by Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim, América Móvil is the largest telecommunications company in Latin America. It operates in more than 15 countries across the region and provides services including mobile, landline, broadband, and pay-TV. The company has also made strides in expanding its 5G infrastructure. With its cash flow and market dominance, América Móvil is a steady performer on Wall Street.

7. Grupo México (GMBXF) copper giant

~$47 billion

One of the largest copper producers in the world, Grupo México operates mines in Mexico, Peru, and the US. As demand for copper grows amid the global electrification and transition to renewables, Grupo México stands to benefit greatly. With strong vertical integration, from mining to transport via its railroads, the company is efficient and scalable. Despite the cyclicality of commodity prices, its long-term fundamentals are solid.

8. Nubank (NU) fintech disruptor

~$42 billion

Founded in Brazil and now headquartered in São Paulo, Nubank has been a disruptor in the Latin American banking sector with its digital-first approach. One of the largest independent digital banks in the world, Nubank serves over 80 million customers in Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia. The bank offers a range of financial products, including credit cards, savings accounts, insurance, and investments, all of which are accessible via its mobile app. With low fees, an easy-to-use interface, and a customer-centric model, Nubank stands out among Latin American companies on Wall Stree

9. Bradesco (BBD) banking with a long history and technology

~$40 billion

Banco Bradesco, another Brazilian powerhouse, combines its extensive branch network with its growing digital service platform. The bank serves both retail and corporate customers, offering credit, insurance, and investment services. As the fintech upstarts like Nubank compete for customers, Bradesco has invested in AI, digital banking, and customer experience. One of the most profitable and stable banks in the region, Bradesco is a stable bet for long-term investors.

10. FEMSA (FMX) — beverage and retail conglomerate

~$39 billion

Fomento Económico Mexicano, or FEMSA, is a conglomerate with interests in Coca-Cola bottling, convenience store chains such as OXXO, and logistics and packaging services. With an integrated business model, a regional presence, and long-term partnerships with global brands such as Coca-Cola, FEMSA is one of the most versatile Latin American companies on Wall Street. With investments in fintech and digital payment platforms, it’s also positioned for the future.

The bigger picture: Latin America’s economic maturity

These 10 Latin American companies on Wall Street showcase the extent to which Latin American companies are no longer mere resource exporters but global players. With fintech, e-commerce, and telecommunications leading the way, the region is actively adopting innovation, sustainability, and digitization. With their listings on the NYSE, these companies not only represent investor confidence but also the potential to raise capital that can be reinvested in the region. As the political and economic reforms take root in countries like Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia, the visibility and performance of these companies is likely to rise.

Conclusion

Latin American companies on Wall Street are no longer just symbolic. They represent a true growth of Latin America in the global economy. Whether it’s innovative fintech, sustainable mining, or retail innovation, these companies are shaping Latin America’s role in the global economy. As investors look for diversification and access to new markets, these top firms offer a window into a region of opportunity, resilience, and dynamism.

A Historic Event in Bilateral Ties

The First Ecuador–United Arab Emirates Economic and Investment Forum was held in Quito on Saturday, June 21, 2025, marking a new chapter in diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries. Beyond the celebration of a strong alliance, the forum was a crucial event to find common ground and begin negotiations towards a free trade agreement between the two countries.

Ecuador’s Ministry of Production, Foreign Trade, Investments and Tourism presented a broad array of projects covering several economic sectors, such as energy, mining, hydrocarbons, free zones, education, technology, telecommunications, and social housing. Ecuadorian officials described the meeting as a historic event for the country’s international relations and as a sign of Ecuador’s active search for partnerships abroad.

Quick Diplomatic Outreach Yields Immediate Results

The economic and investment forum occurred just 45 days after the visit of the President of Ecuador, Daniel Noboa, to the UAE accompanied by a delegation of ministers. The swift move showed the eagerness of both countries to explore the various cooperation possibilities between them. The minister of Telecommunications, Roberto Kury, mentioned that in this meeting, “What better proof of a common willingness to work together than them being here with us in such a short time, all aligned with a common vision of the country.”

This rapid transition from the outreach stage to the work stage reflects the urgency of collaboration between the United Arab Emirates and Ecuador. Kury stressed the importance of combining political intention with business implementation, especially in those sectors that generate jobs, transfer technology, and develop the country’s infrastructure.

Quick Results and a Strategic Partnership

Emirati Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications, His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama, attended the forum as the head of the UAE delegation. His presence at the meeting represented the strategic focus of the United Arab Emirates in those economic sectors in which Ecuador has shown its ability and potential.

“All members of the delegation were very eager to see what we could accomplish. We saw the potential, the warmth of the people and cultures, and all the things we could do together,” Al Olama said. The minister added that “We met leaders with a vision to work for future generations, companies willing to invest, and a real willingness to do business together.”

Partnerships Beyond Commercial Interests

Emirati Minister Al Olama said the focus of cooperation between the United Arab Emirates and Ecuador should not be solely focused on short-term commercial interests, but on building together. “We met with leaders who want to build for future generations, companies willing to invest, and a real willingness to do business together,” he added.

In addition, he praised Ecuador for being open to working with a long-term vision. “It’s very difficult to find a country, a government, and a people rising together. We will be coming here very often and are looking forward to seeing more of Ecuador and strengthening our relationship with the United Arab Emirates,” he concluded.

Business Discussions by Sector to Establish Clear Roadmaps

One of the key aspects of the forum was the business sessions held between the members of the Cabinet of Ecuador and Emirati officials and businesspeople, with whom they shared different sectors of mutual interest. These working sessions allowed the ministers of both countries to hold direct conversations to identify the opportunities for investment and the structural framework to support such investments.

Foreign Minister Gabriela Sommerfeld led the Ecuadorian delegation in these business meetings, in which she prioritized trade, innovation, and production. “This is not only an investment of money but an investment in establishing strategic partnerships,” Sommerfeld said.

One of the major focuses of the meeting was innovation and digital transformation, a sector in which the United Arab Emirates has achieved global leadership and Ecuador is actively working to create capacity. This is an area of great potential for technology exchange, policy alignment, and training, all of which can strengthen Ecuador’s efforts to modernize its economy.

Minister of Energy and Mining, Inés Manzano, presented a broad range of projects in the energy and mining sector to showcase to Emirati investors. She discussed the great potential that Ecuador has in terms of renewable energy, which led her to present two world-class solar photovoltaic projects. “These solar plants will prevent the emission of more than 700 tons of CO₂ annually, which will help Ecuador meet its climate commitments and open the door to green investment,” Manzano said.

The Minister of Energy and Mining also spoke about Ecuador’s hydrocarbon resources, which include onshore and offshore fields, and offshore blocks for exploration and production, and three modern refineries located in Esmeraldas, Shushufindi and La Libertad. “These projects will increase Ecuador’s production of fuels and reduce its dependency on imported fuels and will enable it to produce fuel for itself and make it self-sufficient,” Manzano explained.

Ecuador is now offering eleven offshore blocks for exploration and production, and the government is looking for investors to update its three main refineries, the only three in the country, to increase domestic fuel production, reduce imports, and become more self-sufficient in terms of fuel.

Mineral wealth opens doors for Emirati investment

The United Arab Emirates’ interest in strategic minerals fits perfectly with Ecuador’s plan to develop its mining sector with the help of foreign capital. Deputy Ministers of Electricity and Mines, Fabián Calero and Javier Subía, met with Emirati Ambassador Ibrahim Alalawi to explain the investment opportunities that Ecuador offers in the mining sector.

Ecuador is increasingly becoming a frontier market in responsible mining, with considerable reserves of copper, gold, and silver, which could provide the UAE with the minerals needed for the manufacture of new technologies and clean energy systems.

The meeting also considered how the Emirati investment could help to develop infrastructure for the generation of renewable energy, thus strengthening both countries’ efforts to promote sustainable growth.

Investment Opportunities in Telecommunications

Ecuador’s minister of Telecommunications, Roberto Kury, expressed the country’s need for alliances between companies and funding channels to provide infrastructure for 5G networks, data centers, and cloud services. The United Arab Emirates, with its world-class infrastructure, can help Ecuador overcome its digital divide.

Cooperation between the United Arab Emirates and Ecuador could also involve public-private partnerships to expand broadband, literacy programs, and the development of remote work ecosystems. Both countries could advance together in Ecuador’s position as a technology hub for the region, with skilled human capital and regulation favorable to innovation.

The Push for a Free Trade Agreement

One of the recurrent topics during the forum was the establishment of a free trade agreement (FTA) between the United Arab Emirates and Ecuador. Negotiations are still in the early stages, but both parties are eager to establish formal trade relations through an agreement that facilitates the flow of goods, services, investment, and regulatory cooperation.

Such an agreement would provide Ecuador with new markets for its products, processed foods, and manufactured goods. At the same time, Emirati companies would gain access to a growing South American economy with the advantage of proximity to the Pacific and Atlantic trade routes.

Such an agreement would open the door to further involvement in other sectors such as aviation, logistics, fintech, and tourism. Ecuador’s strategic location and dollarized currency make it an attractive gateway to Latin America.

Economic and investment partnership for long-term development

The United Arab Emirates and Ecuador have a shared vision of developing a strategic partnership between the two countries based on respect, economic development, and a shared commitment to sustainable development. The inaugural forum laid the groundwork for further exchanges and visits that will continue and deepen the alliance between the two countries.

For Ecuador, the relationship with the United Arab Emirates is an opportunity to diversify its economy, attract responsible foreign investment, and modernize the country, especially with a focus on renewable energy and digital transformation. For the United Arab Emirates, Ecuador offers untapped potential in the form of natural resources, strategic location, and a receptive investment climate.

As both countries take a giant leap toward finalizing agreements and setting up joint ventures, the results of this forum will have long-lasting effects and will mark the start of a long-term, transformative partnership between the United Arab Emirates and Ecuador.

When investors think of Latin America, Chile has historically been one of the first countries that comes to mind. A land of stability, openness to trade, and stable legal frameworks, it is one of the most competitive regions for foreign direct investment (FDI) in the world. But as competition grows, and investor expectations change, Chile needs to confront domestic challenges that may hinder attracting investment to Chile.

Chile in the Global Investment Context

With the reawakening of American interest in Latin America as a trading partner and investment opportunity, attracting investment to Chile presents both an opportunity and a challenge. In a rapidly changing geopolitical and economic environment, Chile has proven itself as a reliable destination for mining, clean energy, tech, and agribusiness. However, it cannot afford to rest on its laurels.

“Chile is still seen as an innovation hub,” says Roberta Valenca, President of the Chilean-American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham). “We maintain strong ties with the US, which accounts for 33% of our FDI.”

But Valenca and other industry experts say the country needs to address three crucial aspects — security, institutional quality, and talent development — to maintain and grow its appeal to investors in order to continue attracting investment to Chile.

Investor concerns around public security

The other issues that investors are increasingly discussing is public security. In fact, business leaders across industries all agree that the quality of a country’s institutions — its ability to ensure safety and enforce the rule of law — are key factors when deciding to invest in Chile.

“The market’s image as a secure place to do business has been weakened as of late. Suppose we do not move forward on basic elements like the rule of law. In that case, we risk losing ground to a country like Argentina, which right now projects a better stability than we do in some indicators,” says Patricio Jarpa, General Manager of Nanotec Chile.

Although Chile still ranks relatively well compared to other countries in the region in terms of global governance indicators, a recent uptick in crime and street protests has already begun to chip away at investor perceptions of stability. Stronger law enforcement, more efficient courts, and government reforms that strengthen the country’s institutions are now critical to attracting investment to Chile. These improvements would contribute to more investment in Chile for global firms concerned with operational risks.

Human capital: A core foundation of a competitive economy

Apart from a sound physical infrastructure and regulatory framework, the country’s ability to develop and retain a talented workforce is a key factor in attracting investors to Chile. As the economy moves away from a natural resource and export-driven economy, toward a knowledge-based one, companies are looking for places with a trained and flexible workforce. This is particularly true in knowledge-intensive industries such as information technology, biotechnology, and green energy, where innovation and competitive advantage are key to business success.

“We have over 100,000 professionals in the technology sector, a solid foundation. However, there are productivity gaps and gaps in specialization that remain to be filled,” says Isaías Sharon, founder of Perzon AI. “Our labor productivity is still about 50% below the OECD average. Investors want competitive, malleable talent with a global perspective. If we do not work to strengthen that foundation, we will not be able to keep up in our efforts to continue attracting investment to Chile.” The development of human capital is essential to ensure a consistent influx of investment to Chile in these advanced and rapidly evolving sectors.

Updating Chile’s educational system and upskilling for the future

If Chile wants to increase the productivity and specialization of its labor force, it needs to re-envision its education and training system. Conventional universities and universities of applied sciences need to better align with market demands in areas like data science, software engineering, and clean energy.

But public-private partnerships could play a role as well, creating training programs and apprentice schemes in industries such as agritech or food production. Incentivizing greater access to technical education and continuing professional development will also enable more fluidity in the labor market, as well as a pipeline of talent for the high-value-added sectors of the future. This educational modernization will be instrumental in creating an even more attractive investment in Chile for companies that rely on specialized, adaptable labor.

Modernizing human resources management

Another element is how companies manage their human resources. Investors are not only looking at numbers, but at the overall culture of an organization, its processes, and its treatment of employees.

“We are no longer talking about a macroeconomic assessment. Investors want to see reliable work environments, efficient processes, and data-driven decision making. We need to use more technology in human capital management if we are to continue attracting investment to Chile,” says Sharon.

Digitizing human resources practices, from using AI and predictive analytics to automate HR processes, can improve talent attraction, better measure employee performance, and keep talent from leaving. Such investment in technology signals to global investors that Chilean companies are ready for the future of work and contribute to making Chile a more attractive investment option.

Chile’s strong infrastructural advantages

One area where Chile has long been lauded is in its physical infrastructure. The country boasts a state-of-the-art road and port network, high-quality airports, and advanced telecommunications. It has a long coastline along the Pacific Ocean and enjoys trade agreements with over 60 countries, including the U.S., China, and the EU, as well as being a major transport hub in South America. So, as an entrepôt, Chile connects companies to global markets.

It also has an advantage in the availability of renewable energy. With investments in solar and wind energy in the Atacama Desert and southern Patagonia, Chile is becoming a leader in clean energy in Latin America. For companies focused on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals, the investments increase Chile’s investment appeal.

However, as always, Chile must maintain and modernize its infrastructure. It needs to invest in smart logistics, deployment of 5G networks, and digitalization of services to stay ahead of its competitors in the region.

Policies and investor confidence

Along with infrastructure, the stability of Chile’s policies and regulations is also key to attracting investment to Chile. Chile has gone through a period of political polarization in the past decade, resulting in tax policy, environmental regulations, and labor laws with uncertain trajectories.

But by engaging with stakeholders in the public and private sectors, Chile can ensure open dialogue and a pro-investment environment. That includes streamlining administrative processes, digitalizing government services, and creating a clearer legal environment for the growing industries of the future, like fintech and green hydrogen.

Incentives for research and development (R&D), funding for innovation, and special economic zones could also serve as additional levers to attract high-tech companies and startups.

New high-value sectors poised for growth

The future of Chile, as it begins to navigate the future, has many sectors poised for growth that could attract new investors.

• Green hydrogen: With its strong potential for renewable energy production, Chile aims to be a leading exporter of green hydrogen by 2030.
• Fintech and digital services: Chile’s capital city Santiago is already establishing itself as a fintech hub in Latin America.
• Advanced agribusiness: From precision farming to agri-tech startups, Chile’s advanced agricultural sector is attracting increasing interest from outside.
• Health technology: The pandemic accelerated the development of healthtech solutions, and Chile’s relatively strong public health sector is well-positioned to evolve further.

Such sectors do not only offer potential for traditional investors but also for venture capital and impact investors seeking to promote sustainable and inclusive development.

Call for a coordinated approach

In the end, the challenges facing Chile are not insurmountable. But they do require a concerted effort. Agencies, companies, universities, and civil society must work together to build an investment ecosystem that can keep attracting investment to Chile.

This means updating outdated regulatory frameworks, investing in social cohesion, and bringing economic policy into line with long-term sustainability and innovation goals.

Conclusion: Future-proofing Chile’s attractiveness

In the end, Chile’s future remains bright. Its advantages in connectivity, clean energy, and open markets will continue to attract investors from around the world. But in a changing and unpredictable world, these advantages must be built on a firm foundation of institutions, security, and a trained workforce.

That’s the message for Chile. Chile’s attractiveness will not depend on the supply of natural resources or free trade agreements alone. In the future, it will be determined by Chile’s ability to offer security, train its people, and innovate at all levels of society — the core elements that make for an attractive investment in Chile in a 21st-century global economy.