Costa Rica went from exporting four main products in the 1980s to 4,300 today.

The transformation of the export structure

Costa Rica has gone from exporting four main products in the 1980s to offering 4,300 products to the world today.

Over the years, Costa Rica has fundamentally transformed its export structure in a remarkably short period of time. From an economy that depended on a small number of agricultural exports, the country today sends more than 4,300 products to 150 different markets. It has an international presence that is growing not only in volume but also in sophistication and diversification.

The evolution in the export basket is notable. From pineapple, bananas, coffee, and root vegetables –whose quality has given the country a place of strong worldwide leadership– to medical devices and knowledge-intensive services such as information and communication technologies, finance, cybersecurity, and other areas of the fourth industrial revolution, the diversity of goods and services reflect how economic diversification in Costa Rica has generated higher productivity, better-paid jobs, and a place for the country as a reliable partner in global value chains.

Transforming a basket of products is one thing, but turning it into a successful, strategic, and sustainable story is another. This achievement is more than a number. It is the product of a historic process of openness, strategic vision, institutional rigor, and a profound productive metamorphosis. Above all, it is the capacity that Costa Rica has had to open new markets, address their needs, and establish trade relationships with the world’s main economic blocs.

The journey and the first steps

For decades, Costa Rica prepared the foundations for this type of modern growth. It built and consolidated a trade-liberalization policy that integrated the country with dynamic economies; strengthened public institutions, investing in human capital and preparing to receive high-quality foreign investment. The country’s social stability, universal education system, and environmental sustainability commitment became attractive magnets for international companies seeking safe and responsible places to make their investments.

Simultaneously, a commercial promotion framework was built that made it possible to understand global trends, identify business opportunities, and support companies in meeting the requirements of increasingly sophisticated markets. The diversification that is celebrated today is the result of coherent decisions, technical work, and constant dialogue with the business sector. This path proves that economic diversification in Costa Rica has not been the product of chance, but a policy-driven process.

The principal actor: The private sector

In this journey, Costa Rica’s private sector has been the leading actor. Thousands of companies, ranging from small agro-industrial businesses to large companies in advanced manufacturing and services, worked to modernize their processes, invest in technology, adapt to new regulations, explore niches in nascent markets, and take risks in markets that seemed geographically distant.

Each certification achieved, productive reconversion made possible, pilot shipment, and operational adjustment helped to build the country’s reputation as a supplier of high-quality, reliable, innovative, and capable of competing in high-value-added segments. The diversification of markets also has a story of entrepreneurial courage: that of businesses that decided to use the tools available to them and transform them into real opportunities for growth.

PROCOMER, in support of business

Accompanying the country’s business community throughout this process has been Costa Rica’s investment and trade promotion agency, PROCOMER. This institution has evolved from being solely an export window to becoming a comprehensive platform for productive development and strategic intelligence.

Tools and information systems have been designed to guide business decisions. Mechanisms to strengthen productive linkages have been put in place. Certification and productive transformation services that open the doors of demanding markets have been created. Strategies have been articulated to understand and respond to global consumer trends, and initiatives have been launched to drive added value. These efforts have been crucial in achieving deeper economic diversification in Costa Rica, especially in segments such as life sciences, agritech, digital services, and advanced manufacturing.

An international network that opens doors

Complementing the tools for generating value, PROCOMER has a solid network of international offices that function as extensions of the agency in more than 40 markets, as well as advisory services for trade facilitation and the efficient administration of the free-trade-zone regime. All of these tools and actions have one clear objective: to facilitate business operations, simplify procedures, and open more markets.

Costa Rica began a process of export diversification nearly 30 years ago. The results are in the data: going from four main exports in the 1980s to having a presence in 4,300 products in the country today. Although the leading trading partner continues to be North America, other regions of the world, such as Europe, Central America, and Asia, have attained an increasingly relevant role.

Beyond exports: the competitiveness platform

Today, Costa Rica not only has a history to celebrate but also a solid platform that enables it to project even more ambitious visions. The country has talent, reputation, strong institutions, and a business sector that has repeatedly demonstrated its capacity to innovate and adapt to new market niches.

Universities and technical institutes continue to make efforts to adapt their training to the areas of greatest demand. In the same way, companies are already beginning to collaborate more in the areas of research, development, and innovation. In this context, PROCOMER is betting on an even more ambitious stage of diversification: the expansion of the organization’s physical presence in priority markets, the consolidation of more sophisticated sector portfolios, the promotion of emerging technologies, and the strengthening of tools and capabilities to compete in complex global value chains.

The next stage: emerging markets and new opportunities

Opportunities and challenges for the future

The challenges ahead require Costa Rica to be prepared to be flexible and agile, and to continue investing in infrastructure, digital connectivity, workforce upskilling, and modernization of the regulatory framework. With the appropriate strategic planning, economic diversification in Costa Rica will be able to continue minimizing its vulnerability to external shocks and promote more inclusive growth throughout the country’s regions.

Sustainability remains one of the guiding principles for Costa Rica, whose long-standing commitment to renewable energy, environmental protection, and climate-resilient production, give the country a unique competitive narrative in international markets where responsible sourcing and ethical production are increasingly valued.

The path continues

Costa Rica’s progress is undeniable, but it does not end here. Costa Rica must continue to design and implement modern policies that strengthen domestic industry, promote foreign direct investment, focus on the development of human resources, and, at the same time, work to improve the country’s overall competitiveness. Only then will the country be able to continue advancing along the path of diversification and prove once again that economic diversification in Costa Rica is not just a strategy but a long-term national commitment.

The Dominican Republic will close the year 2025 with one of the strongest performances in the history of tourism in the country. December, which traditionally represents one of the busiest months for the sector, is already showing figures that are unprecedented. They confirm its regional leadership and its increasing weight in the international market. But beyond numbers, these achievements are also the product of coordinated efforts between the public and private sectors in the last few years to make the country more accessible, attractive, and resilient.

In the first 17 days of December, the country has registered 390,000 air arrivals of tourists. An important volume that represents a growth of 11% year over year with respect to the same period in 2024. An even more revealing figure in relation to the pre-pandemic period, since it is estimated that the increase over 2019 reaches 60%, consolidating the sector’s full recovery and its structural expansion. The figures reflect a sustained phase of strategic growth of tourism in the Dominican Republic, beyond recovery mode.

Tourism Minister David Collado made the announcement at the inauguration of a new parking area for visitors at the Bayahíbe Beach, an important tourist destination that has gained even more visitors in recent months on the country’s east coast. The project strengthens tourism infrastructure and road safety in one of the most visited seaside areas. In addition to improving traffic flows, it provides safer access for locals and international travelers alike.

December May Be Best Tourism Month Ever Recorded

Official forecasts indicate that December 2025 will be the best month ever registered for tourism in the country. For the first time, the Dominican Republic is expected to exceed 900,000 arrivals by air in a single month. A new record that not only reflects the strength of international demand, but also the destination’s growing operational capacity to receive more visitors. Airlines have been increasing frequencies, new routes have been opened from the United States, Europe, and South America, and major tour operators continue to position the Dominican Republic as a flagship destination in the Caribbean.

The strong performance is supported by a trend of sustained growth in cruise tourism. For its part, the Ministry of Tourism estimates that more than 400,000 visitors will arrive by sea during December, setting another record. The cruise port of La Romana, operated by Casa de Campo Central Romana, has become one of the most important in the region. While new cruise facilities in other areas of the country continue to be strengthened to diversify maritime connectivity. These developments reflect how tourism in the Dominican Republic is diversifying its offer beyond traditional resort stays to include short-stay cruise travelers who significantly impact local economies.

These figures do not just benefit hotels. They stimulate transportation services, increase demand for restaurants and local gastronomy, create jobs in tour operations, and generate opportunities for micro and small businesses that sell crafts, excursions, and cultural experiences. In many communities, revenue from tourism is channeled directly into local commerce, thus supporting thousands of families.

Tourism Boom: Infrastructure and Vision to Position the Country Globally

Minister Collado highlighted that the boom is not just a numerical achievement. It is the result of a long-term strategy focused on infrastructure, promotion, innovation and national pride. Investments such as the new parking lot for visitors in Bayahíbe, which has space for 58 buses, 157 light vehicles, and 58 motorcycles, can be modest compared to luxury hotel developments. But they significantly improve logistics, visitor experience, and safety.

Projects like these are part of a broader effort to modernize access roads, improve signage, expand airport services, and coordinate more effectively among emergency and security agencies. All this adds up to a perception of reliability, one of the most important factors when choosing where to vacation. But Collado also emphasized the importance of strengthening an image linked to entrepreneurship, creativity, and hospitality. Increasingly, travelers look for destinations that combine natural beauty with authentic cultural experiences. For this reason, tourism in the Dominican Republic is now positioning itself not only with its beaches and resorts, but also with its music, gastronomy, heritage towns, ecotourism experiences, and community tourism initiatives in rural areas.

December Record Crowns an Extraordinary 2025 Year for Tourism

The record in December crowns an extraordinary year in general. From the beginning of 2025, the country has set one record after another. In January alone, the Dominican Republic received 1,155,484 visitors. An increase of 53% compared to 2019 and 8% over 2024.

By the end of the first quarter, cumulative arrivals reached 3,348,716, reflecting strong growth in air arrivals and cruise tourism. At the midpoint of the year, totals surpassed 6,145,008 visitors, the highest number ever registered for that period. Growth continued at a steady pace during the second half of the year, demonstrating consistency and avoiding seasonal spikes. By August, cumulative arrivals had already exceeded 8 million. By November, the totals had reached 10,284,251 visitors.

These figures position the country to close the year with more than 11 million visitors. Reaffirming its status as one of the most competitive and sought-after destinations in the Caribbean. But it has also encouraged new investments in hotels, airports, renewable energy integration in resorts, and modern waste-management systems to help preserve coastal environments.

Tourism authorities also emphasize progress in training programs for hospitality workers, the modernization of digital promotion strategies, and the strengthening of agreements with international airlines. All of these actions ensure that tourism in the Dominican Republic continues to grow in a sustainable and well-planned way.

Beyond the Numbers: Long-Term Economic and Social Impact

The effects go beyond the statistics of tourism activity. Strong demand from visitors is reinforcing air and maritime connectivity, encouraging the modernization of infrastructure, and promoting economic diversification. In this regard, new businesses, from transportation startups to local tour guides, emerge in the areas that make up tourism corridors. While existing companies expand operations in response to greater demand.

On the social side, tourism has generated thousands of formal jobs and has also helped to boost entrepreneurship among young people and women, especially in coastal communities. Programs that promote community-based tourism and responsible environmental practices are also helping ensure that local residents are the direct beneficiaries of economic opportunities while natural resources are protected.

In short, the historic record in December is not an isolated fact. It ratifies a long-term trend that is redefining the scope of tourism in the Dominican Republic and positioning the country firmly on the global tourism map for years to come.

Growing Chinese Economic Presence in the Region

Direct investment from the Asian country in Latin America reached 14.71 billion dollars in 2024. This figure reflects not only the magnitude of capital flows but also the consolidation of a long-term strategy that combines trade, infrastructure, technology, and energy. China has established itself as a commercial partner for multiple Latin American countries, such as Brazil and Argentina, and has expanded its presence with emblematic projects like the Port of Chancay in Peru — an expansion that has generated new frictions with the United States and reshaped parts of the region’s geopolitical balance. For many analysts, Chinese investment in Latin America has become a structural component of the continent’s economic landscape.

Strategic Infrastructure and Supply Chains

That port, inaugurated last year to connect South America directly with China, joins other initiatives such as automobile factories in Mexico and Brazil, copper and iron mines in Chile, railway projects in Argentina, and lithium operations in the triangle formed by that country, Bolivia, and Chile. These investments do not merely seek natural resources; they aim to create logistical hubs that reduce costs, bring markets closer together, and increase the competitiveness of regional exports.

According to China’s Ministry of Commerce, direct investment from the Asian country in Latin America reached 14.71 billion dollars in 2024. Data from the National Autonomous University of Mexico show that, between 2010 and 2019, this inflow of capital exceeded that of the previous decade. However, since the pandemic, the pace has slowed due to global uncertainty, logistical restrictions, and adjustments in Beijing’s priorities.

Long-Term Interest and Growth Expectations

As early as 2011, Jin Liqun — then president of China Investment Corporation, a sovereign wealth fund with about 1.57 trillion yuan in assets and tasked with investing abroad — expressed his “optimism” about growth in Latin America and announced that investments in the region would “increase,” pointing specifically to opportunities in countries such as Brazil, Chile, and Colombia. Those remarks anticipated a trend that today spans sectors as diverse as energy, telecommunications, agriculture, and finance.

However, what was initially perceived as a search for new markets and profitable investments is now viewed in Washington as a “strategic threat,” according to William Jackson, chief emerging-markets economist at the British consultancy Capital Economics. In his analysis, Chinese investment in Latin America has implications that go beyond trade, introducing new dependencies, political alignments, and negotiating room for Latin American governments vis-à-vis the United States.

Geopolitical Competition and the Shadow of the Monroe Doctrine

In a report published this year, Jackson argues that the region could become the stage for a revival — this time with China as the main actor — of the Monroe Doctrine, through which the United States sought to limit European influence in the Americas during the 19th century. The difference today is that Latin American countries, to a greater extent, seek to diversify their partners in order to secure better terms, attract technology, and reduce vulnerabilities, even if that increases competition among great powers.

A New Roadmap for the Future

This month, Beijing released a new official roadmap for Latin America and the Caribbean — its third since 2008 — stating that China and the region share “broad development prospects.” More specifically, Chinese authorities see opportunities in artificial intelligence, telecommunications, renewable energy, hydrogen, mining, and mineral processing. They also propose boosting projects in transportation, logistics, housing, electricity, and urban development under the umbrella of the Belt and Road Initiative, which several countries in the region have joined.

The document also mentions tourism initiatives — China has granted visa-free entry to visitors from Argentina, Peru, and Chile — as well as greater use of local currencies in cross-border transactions, together with dialogue among regulators and central banks. Financially, Argentina stands out for its currency-swap agreement with China, which has been crucial in stabilizing reserves and supporting external payments, and was partially renewed this year.

Trade in Transition and Sectoral Effects

Latin America has become a priority market for China’s foreign trade, alongside Southeast Asia and Africa, particularly in a context of tariff tensions with the United States. Through November, while exports to the U.S. fell by 18 percent, those destined for Latin American countries rose by nearly 8 percent, reaching roughly 276 billion dollars — equivalent to 70 percent of what the world’s largest economy buys from the Asian giant.

Over the past two decades, Chinese exports have risen nearly eleven-fold, mainly in manufactured goods and, more recently, electric vehicles in markets such as Brazil. In the opposite direction, Latin America exports primarily iron, copper, soybeans, and oil — reinforcing a pattern in which China imports raw materials and exports higher-value goods. For some governments, this opens opportunities; for others, it raises concerns about a renewed dependence on primary commodities.

Dependencies, Opportunities, and Caution

The countries with the greatest exposure are Chile, Brazil, and Peru, each sending more than 25 percent of its exports to China. Even so, Capital Economics warns against “overstating China’s role”: the region exports three times more to the United States than to China, and even excluding Mexico, the volume shipped to the U.S. remains comparable. Jackson emphasizes that “China does not exercise the hegemony often attributed to it. Especially for Mexico and Central America, the United States remains far more important.”

Nevertheless, Chinese investment in Latin America is introducing new productive capacity in sectors such as automobile manufacturing, clean energy, and digitalization, while also upgrading critical infrastructure. The debate, therefore, centers on how to maximize the benefits — jobs, technology transfer, and logistical integration — while avoiding excessive dependence, environmental harm, or unsustainable debt.

Energy Transition and Critical Minerals

The global push toward renewable energy has heightened Chinese interest in lithium, copper, and nickel. In the so-called Lithium Triangle — Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile — Chinese consortia are participating in projects that could shape the global battery supply chain. A similar dynamic is unfolding in solar and wind energy, where Chinese companies provide competitive financing and technology. In this sphere, Chinese investment in Latin America is seen as an accelerator of the energy transition, though local communities demand greater transparency, participation, and environmental guarantees.

Looking Ahead

Looking forward, Latin American governments are trying to balance relations with Washington and Beijing — attracting capital and technology without compromising strategic autonomy. China’s new roadmap suggests a more sophisticated form of cooperation focused on innovation, services, and sustainability. For observers, Chinese investment in Latin America will be a defining element of that equation, both because of its scale and its ability to shape emerging industries.

Ultimately, the challenge for the region is to turn this wave of capital into inclusive development, high-quality infrastructure, and productive diversification. Achieving that goal will depend on solid regulatory frameworks, transparency, and long-term planning that allows the relationship with China — and with other partners — to translate into tangible, lasting benefits for society.

Amid external uncertainty over global tariff policies and geopolitical tensions, Guatemalan exports maintain a favorable scenario. Guatemala’s foreign trade closed the year with remarkable strength in 2025, consolidating the figures reported in the first half and even more optimistically for the end of 2026. In a detailed report, the latest data from the Bank of Guatemala (Banguat) shows that foreign exchange earnings from exports closed at 13.055 billion dollars between January and October 2025, 7% higher than the same period of the previous year. The result evidences the sector’s competitiveness and, in addition, a progressively more diversified export basket.

In total, the exports of apparel were for 1.2883 billion dollars (9.9% of the total), followed by coffee (9.3%), bananas (6.8%), and sugar (6.3%). Traditional agricultural exports remain key pillars, but the weight of manufacturing and processed goods sectors is growing. Meanwhile, higher value-added products (food preparations, plastics, and chemical products, among others) are gaining share. These products are beginning to make inroads in external markets and strengthen the Guatemalan economy’s integration into regional and global value chains.

Accordingly, during a press conference — where the Central Bank announced that it will review economic growth in December — Banguat’s economic manager, Johny Gramajo, stated that for 2025, exports will close at a central growth value of 6%. “Exports are one of the main pillars that support Guatemalan economic growth and the creation of employment,” Gramajo reiterated. The country’s export growth had already closed the first half of 2025 in force. The strategy will be to extend the momentum beyond this year.

The Impact of Tariffs

2026 looks solid, and monetary authorities have revised growth upward for next year, in which exports will continue to rise at a 6.0%. A major reason is the effect of trade agreements with the United States, where tariff reductions will take place. These will work to further strengthen Guatemala’s competitiveness against other regional exporting economies, especially in those sectors in which price sensitivity is high, and tariff preferences are key to maintaining market share.

“The question about tariffs — the effects of the agreement that Guatemala reached with the United States — obviously will not be reflected in 2025, but particularly in 2026. That is why we are improving our export projection,” Gramajo reiterated. Lower tariff barriers in priority sectors, such as textiles, agricultural goods, and certain manufactured products, will benefit exporters by reducing costs and incentivizing investment in productive capacity. Companies are already planning investments in machinery, logistics, and workforce training to take advantage of the expected commercial benefits.

Beyond the reduction of tariffs, it is also expected that continued efforts to simplify customs procedures, digitalize trade documentation, and modernize port and road infrastructure will also benefit the Guatemalan export growth. Structural improvements will help to reduce bottlenecks, shorten delivery times, and improve reliability, essential factors for international buyers when evaluating the resilience of supply chains.

Strength in Manufacturing and Textiles

The textile industry, according to the projections, will grow from an estimated 2.7% in 2024 to 4% in 2026. Textiles – which represent nearly one-third of sales to the U.S. market – will be able to count on tariff exemptions already being factored into official estimates. The apparel sector, which is concentrated mainly in special economic zones and export processing areas, is also reinforcing its competitive advantages of flexibility, labor skills, and proximity to the North American market.

Alfredo Blanco, vice president of the Bank of Guatemala, also reinforced the projections by noting that “there is an improvement from 2.7% in 2025 to 4.0% in 2026 in the manufacturing industry, and included in that improvement is the announcement by the respective authorities of tariff reductions for textiles as well as certain agricultural products.” The combination of tariff preferences and trends towards nearshoring, where companies move production closer to their main consumer markets, is expected to generate new investments in the Guatemalan manufacturing base.

In addition, Guatemala is undergoing progressive diversification within the manufacturing industry. Sectors that produce auto parts, medical supplies, plastics, and packaging materials are expanding. These, in turn, generate higher technology transfer levels and formal employment, thus reinforcing the sustainability of Guatemalan export growth. The strengthening of vocational and technical training programs is also added to the mix to support this transition and give companies more specialized human capital aligned with international quality standards.

Diversification, New Markets and Resilience

In the midst of an international environment marked by headwinds, including uncertainty over the global tariff policies and geopolitical tensions, the Guatemalan economy continues to project resilience. Exporters are not only deepening traditional ties with the United States but are also seeking new opportunities in Mexico, other Central American countries, Europe, and parts of Asia. This market diversification will allow Guatemala to mitigate risk exposure to external shocks in any of the destinations and support more stable foreign exchange earnings.

Likewise, agricultural producers are also betting more on differentiated and higher value segments, such as specialty coffees, processed foods, and certified sustainable products. These, in turn, are able to command premium prices and offer better long-term demand prospects. Meanwhile, the rise of service exports, which ranges from call centers to business process outsourcing and digital services, is also complementing the performance of goods exports, and thus contributing indirectly to Guatemalan export growth through job creation, consumption, and domestic investment.

In an environment where GDP growth is projected at 3.7% for 2026, and inflation remains under control, the export sector is consolidating itself as a key engine of stability and economic development for the country in the short and medium term, according to Banguat. Stable macroeconomic conditions, prudent monetary policy and sustained remittances also reinforce domestic demand and help create a favorable environment for companies aiming to expand production for external markets.

Investment in trade-related infrastructure, logistics corridors, and renewable energy also plays a key role in enhancing competitiveness by reducing companies’ operational costs and improving reliability for international buyers. As companies adopt new technologies in quality control, traceability and logistics management, Guatemala’s position as a reliable supplier is reinforced across agricultural, manufacturing and emerging service sectors.

In short, 2026 stands out as a key year for the consolidation of export growth for Guatemala. With tariff policies favoring exporters, expanded manufacturing capacity, diversification of markets and resilient macroeconomic fundamentals, Guatemala is well positioned to take advantage of global trade opportunities. Continued progress in infrastructure, institutional reforms and workforce development are essential for transforming short-term export momentum into sustainable growth that benefits companies, workers and communities across Guatemala.

Focus is on energy and mining. The Argentine government is weighing a new deadline extension to lure further initiatives into the incentive regime.

Momentum Grows for Major Projects

With the recent approval of a new mining project in San Juan, the number of initiatives that have been admitted into the Large Investment Incentive Regime (RIGI) has increased to ten. According to official calculations, these projects combined have committed a total of USD 25 billion in investments in Argentina.

Minister of Economy Luis Caputo informed that the Evaluation Committee for the RIGI had given the green light to the Gualcamayo project, which is a gold and silver mining development in San Juan province. This project will be carried out with an overall investment of USD 665 million.

In addition, Caputo added that the proposal will allow the useful life of a mine close to depletion to be extended by working on a “different type of mineralization” and creating 1,700 direct jobs. This announcement is in line with the government’s broader policy of promoting major mining projects and attracting long-term investment to Argentina.

As a result, Gualcamayo joins a list of projects dominated by energy-related ventures – especially oil and mining. Neuquén, Río Negro, San Juan, Mendoza, Salta, Buenos Aires, Catamarca, and Santa Fe are just some of the main jurisdictions where the projects will take place, further pointing to the expansion of investments in productive sectors across Argentina.

RIGI: The 10 Approved Projects, One by One

1. YPF advances with the construction of “El Quemado”, a solar park that will require USD 211 million in investment. It will be carried out in two phases, the first contributing 200 MW and the second another 105 MW of capacity.
2. Vaca Muerta Sur (Consortium: YPF, PAE, Vista, Pampa Energía, Pluspetrol, Chevron, Shell)

This project includes an initial investment of USD 2.486 billion, which could increase to USD 3 billion. Infrastructure will be installed in Neuquén and Río Negro, to expand Argentina’s export capacity for oil, with the goal of doubling exports within two years. The pipeline could transport 700,000 barrels per day, which would represent USD 17 billion in revenue at USD 68 per barrel.

3. Southern Energy – LNG Barge (Río Negro)

Southern Energy, controlled by Pan American Energy (PAE) and Golar LNG, will install a barge that will be in charge of producing liquefied natural gas (LNG) in the Gulf of San Matías. Total estimated investment in this project is USD 2.9 billion over the next ten years, and could reach USD 6.878 billion across a planned 20 years of operation.

4. Rio Tinto – Rincón Lithium Expansion (Salta)

Rio Tinto will invest USD 2.724 billion to expand the Rincón Lithium project, to increase the production capacity to 60,000 tons per year of lithium to be used in batteries, including the construction of another processing plant.

5. Sidersa – Steel Plant (Buenos Aires Province)

Sidersa will dedicate USD 296 million to the installation of a steel plant in San Nicolás with an annual capacity of 360,000 tons of long steel products. The project promotes more sustainable “green steel” technology and is estimated to generate more than 300 direct and 4,000 indirect jobs.

6. PCR and Acindar – Wind Farm (Olavarría, Buenos Aires)

These companies will build a new wind farm in Olavarría that will require around USD 255 million in investment in Argentina.

7. Galán Lithium – Hombre Muerto Oeste (Catamarca)

Galán Lithium will develop the Hombre Muerto Oeste (HMW) project with an investment of USD 217 million, to be dedicated to the production of high-purity lithium chloride. By 2029, exports related to the project are expected to be USD 180 million annually.

8. Los Azules – Copper Project (San Juan)

This project, led by McEwen Copper, will explore and exploit copper resources in San Juan, with an investment of USD 2.672 billion.

9. Timbúes Multipurpose Port (Santa Fe)

A new port complex will be built with an investment of USD 277 million. This complex will have storage for fertilizers, iron and steel products, grains, and fuels.

10. Gualcamayo Mining Project (San Juan)

This project seeks to extend the useful life of a mine about to be exhausted through the exploitation of a new mineralization. The plan contemplates an investment of USD 665 million and will create about 1,700 direct jobs.

Conclusion: A Strategic Turning Point for Growth and Competitiveness

The portfolio of projects moving forward under the RIGI regime in Argentina marks a strategic turning point for the country’s development. By focusing on large-scale projects with a long-term horizon, the government is sending a strong signal of predictability, technical rigor, and openness to global capital. Equally important, the portfolio of initiatives that is starting to materialize is by no means homogenous, ranging from renewable energy and hydrocarbons to lithium, copper, steel, port logistics, and advanced industrial processes. This reflects a deliberate effort to diversify productive capacity while accelerating export potential. If these projects are effectively implemented, they will not only anchor significant new revenues but also help to strengthen regional economies and stimulate innovation throughout their supply chains.

Beyond their immediate fiscal impact, it should also be noted that these initiatives foster technology transfer, upskilling of the local labor force, and the creation of specialized ecosystems capable of competing in demanding international markets. Each of the projects approved so far is modernizing infrastructure, improving logistics efficiency, and enhancing resilience across strategic sectors. Moreover, by aligning private-sector incentives with national development goals, the RIGI framework also positions the country to attract new waves of investments in Argentina – especially from partners seeking stable rules and high-value opportunities.

Ultimately, the success of this program will depend on transparent governance, regulatory continuity, and collaborative engagement across federal authorities, provincial governments, local communities, and industry leaders. If these conditions are maintained, the 10 approved projects may prove to be just the beginning, laying the ground for sustainable growth, more competitive exports, and a renewed cycle of confidence that reinforces the role of investments in Argentina as a catalyst for long-term prosperity.

Peru is on the cusp of a turning point in the generation of clean power. No longer content to merely advocate for sustainability, the Andean nation is opening its doors to investors, aligning its institutions, and developing a mid-term road map that will make renewable energy investment in Peru a priority. Guided by PromPerú and working in coordination with the Executive Branch, the South American country is eager to attract foreign investment for solar projects in its southern and northern deserts, wind parks on its resource-rich coast, geothermal projects in the Andean corridor, and biomass in the Amazon jungle. The government estimates that with a steady flow of projects, Peru could see its economic growth rate reach or exceed 4.5% in the medium term, while also providing reliable and lower-carbon power to industries that require it. In short, the country is building a strategy to make renewable energy investment in Peru attractive for local developers and international investors alike.

A strategy with an international outlook

Daniel Ignacio Córdova Espinoza, Investment Promotion Director at PromPerú, said the Peruvian government is shifting its strategy from passive promotion to targeted engagement. “We are applying a very proactive approach to identify companies operating in these markets and give them detailed information about the investment opportunities that exist in Peru,” he said during the Future Energy Summit (FES) in Chile. Córdova was making his remarks while PromPerú was unveiling its plan to accelerate foreign capital inflows into Peru, which is steadily making the transition toward a cleaner and more diversified energy matrix. The promotional strategy involves more than conferences and marketing brochures. Personalized outreach to interested firms, technical briefings, and investor support mechanisms that accompany projects from exploration through completion are also key parts of this push to attract international capital. Peru also has a stable macroeconomic and political climate with a social will to decarbonize its energy mix; plus, the growing demand for electricity that has been driven by mining activity, industry, new housing projects, and general urbanization processes. Institutionally speaking, this programmatic coordination now involves several government agencies, including the Office of the Prime Minister, the Ministry of Energy and Mines, the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism, ProInversión, and PromPerú, which are all working together to make renewable energy investment in Peru a success.

What’s driving international interest in renewable energy investment in Peru?

When it comes to renewable energy investment in Peru, investors are looking for three key factors: resource quality, grid connection, and regulatory certainty. Peru scores well on the first two. The country is blessed with some of the best solar irradiation levels on the continent, particularly in the south. The wind corridors along its Pacific coast offer high and consistent wind speeds. Volcanic activity in the southern and central-south regions means there is still untapped geothermal potential. Biomass projects that combine agricultural and forestry residues to produce electricity also have the added benefit of bringing new power to remote communities and reducing waste. Peru’s electric grid is more interconnected than it used to be, and significant investment in new transmission lines is helping bring resource-rich but previously isolated regions closer to urban centers. Meanwhile, the government is actively seeking partnerships between private developers and local communities, not only to make sure projects bring direct employment, training, and new public services, but also to ensure that these projects are seen as an opportunity for shared prosperity. This social dimension is already shaping the way renewable energy investment in Peru is seen by companies that understand the need for long-term projects to generate visible benefits.

Growth projections require regulatory agility

As Peru’s economy continues to grow at just over 3% today, with some estimates suggesting it may exceed 4.5% once reforms and incentive programs start bearing fruit, there is also the implication of growing demand for electricity. Growing demand means the need for storage systems capable of providing additional stability when the sun sets or wind gusts diminish. But here is the rub, according to Córdova Espinoza. Promotion is moving very quickly, and regulation has not always kept up with it. Law 32,249, which is now serving as a sort of provisional framework for energy-storage regulation, is a positive step, but still leaves a lot of room for improvement. Developers are asking for clear permitting procedures, standard rules for integrating new projects onto the grid, and clear timelines to reduce financial risk. The need to coordinate transmission planning with the grid operator is also critical. It makes more sense for policymakers to plan power lines according to where new renewable projects are expected to go, rather than retrofitting the grid later. Córdova Espinoza also spoke of the need to revive private power-purchase agreements (PPAs), which are contracts between companies and developers for the purchase of energy generated by a given plant over a specified period of time. Private PPAs are common in Latin America and provide a way for developers to secure financing for their projects while also hedging against exposure to market volatility.

Community, environment, and shared prosperity

Behind the macroeconomic numbers are communities and regions of Peru that will feel real change as projects are implemented. Solar plants in the south of the country, for instance, are creating jobs for technicians, electricians, welders, engineers, and other skilled professionals. Wind generation, meanwhile, generates local tax revenue that municipalities use to improve public roads, water systems, and schools. Developers are also dedicating more time to pre-project consultations with local communities, where they talk about land use, cultural heritage, and environmental safeguards. These discussions may not be easy, but they can help ensure that renewable energy investment in Peru is not seen as something happening from the outside, but as a shared endeavor with tangible benefits. Standards are also being raised on the environmental side, with impact assessments increasingly calling for wildlife protection plans, soil preservation strategies and post-construction monitoring to ensure ecosystems are not being harmed.

Chile, Argentina, and the competition for regional markets

Peru is well aware of its competition for clean-energy dollars, particularly from neighbors Chile and Argentina, which have already signed contracts worth billions of dollars. But by playing up its resource potential, by expanding the certainty it can offer to investors, and by streamlining permitting procedures, the South American country also hopes to attract projects that could otherwise go to other markets. Although Peru is a later starter than some regional countries in terms of renewable energy investment, its advantage will be to learn from their mistakes. Avoiding an overly complex auction system and minimizing bureaucratic red tape would be positive first steps. There is also room to encourage innovation, whether in the form of hybrid generation/storage plants or other novel technologies. Demand is already on the horizon. Mining companies need to decarbonize their operations, urban areas need more dependable electricity, and export-oriented industries are also under pressure to clean up their supply chains. All of these trends are converging to make renewable energy investment in Peru a priority over the next decade.

A cautious but ultimately optimistic view

Peru’s energy transition is not a foregone conclusion, and obstacles remain, including those related to regulatory bottlenecks and global financial volatility. But the direction of travel is clear, and what the country is doing now — tying together policy, promotion, and infrastructure — signals to investors that it is serious. As Córdova Espinoza put it, “Demand will be there. What needs to happen now is to clear the regulatory path to make that change easier.” If reforms continue to move quickly and if communities continue to feel the benefits of these programs, Peru could end up being one of South America’s clearest success stories in the clean power field. The benefits would be not only economic, but also make for a more resilient energy system that is able to support industry and innovation, and which can also power a more sustainable future for  generations to come.