President José Jerí Oré presided over a high-level working meeting on October 27, 2025, with the general managers of Peru’s most representative business associations to speed up the work of dismantling bureaucratic barriers and strengthening the overall business climate. The objective is to consolidate trust in the government’s policy of attention and increase the volume of investment flow in Peru through greater transparency, efficiency, and articulation between the public and private sectors.

The activity was carried out at the Government Palace and represents a new stage in the economic policy of the Administration. “This meeting will be the first of a series of structured dialogues between the Executive and the business sector that will allow us to develop concrete and practical measures to definitively overcome long-standing administrative obstacles,” stated the President. The dialogue, he added, will give continuity to the structural reform process underway and will boost the competitiveness of Peru and the region.

Dialogue to face common challenges

On this occasion, the President of the Republic pointed out that this new mechanism marks a milestone in the government’s collaboration with the business community, signaling the government’s intention to make the state more agile, transparent, and predictable in its relationship with companies, especially micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). “For this, the authorities are committed to simplifying regulations and eliminating bureaucratic red tape,” he added.

One of the central axes of the first session was precisely the topic of modernizing municipal regulations. “We agree that, at the municipal level, many procedures are outdated, disarticulated, or even excessively bureaucratic,” stated the participants in the event. A first measure is to make inspection processes, operating licenses, and building permits more homogeneous between municipalities. The proposal is also to digitalize administrative procedures so that they have fewer bureaucratic barriers, less discretionary power, and are predictable in terms of response times.

These measures seek to consolidate the recent positive trend in investment flow in Peru, particularly in the manufacturing, retail, and logistics sectors. According to official data, these economic activities employ a large portion of the workforce and have high productivity levels, and their full potential can be unleashed with the simplification of administrative procedures.

Private sector welcomes dialogue

Business leaders, on their part, also showed their satisfaction with the meeting and the openness to dialogue expressed by the President. “The head of state has put his ear to the ground and, in person, he has had the opportunity to listen to us about the main difficulties we face and, at the same time, to receive suggestions and initiatives from each of us in order to strengthen the business climate,” explained the president of the business association.

He also added that this dialogue space will be renewed and that the dialogue will continue in other forums. “We have to find mechanisms and effective formulas to effectively dismantle these barriers in order to increase investment flow in Peru and activate economic growth,” he expressed.

Representatives of organizations such as the Society of Foreign Trade (ComexPerú), the National Confederation of Merchants (Conaco), the Hardware Chamber of Peru, the National Society of Industries (SNI), the Association of Shopping and Entertainment Centers of Peru (ACCEP), the Lima Chamber of Commerce (CCL) and the Mypes Unidas del Perú business association attended the event.

In addition, representatives of the Association of Grocers of Peru, the Peruvian Association of Beauty Entrepreneurs (APEB), the Peruvian Association of Gamarra Entrepreneurs, the Union of Restaurant Guilds and Associations of Peru, the Association of Bakeries and Pastry Shops (Aspan), the Chamber of Entrepreneurs of Mesa Redonda and many other associations working in commerce, services and manufacturing sectors participated. Each of the invited institutions presented a series of proposals to advance in the improvement of local regulations.

Some of the proposals are to reduce the number of agencies involved in each process, both at the municipal level and in national entities, as well as to coordinate each agency’s inspection processes so that these are not repeated, generating delays in operating permits and construction licenses. Each representative has reported the obstacles they face in the field that affect the business operations of their associates.

In particular, microentrepreneurs, especially in the capital, pointed out that they live a daily routine in which the problem of permits and inspections is exposed, not only at the municipal level but also with other national institutions. Faced with this situation, the participants have asked for official coordination so that they are not affected by repeated inspections or the non-release of licenses.

The meeting was described as constructive, transparent, and result-oriented. It was noted that, at last, there is a government that wants to act with legality, efficiency, and on a large scale to promote trust between the public and private sectors.

Open-door policy

In this sense, President Jerí Oré assured the general managers of the different business associations present that his administration will continue to open the doors of the Government Palace to listen to the concerns of the population in general and of all social organizations in particular. “Effective government also requires dialogue with those who generate activity in the country,” he said.

The head of state also emphasized that his administration will continue to call for forums, technical roundtables and consultations with both national and regional business sectors in order to advance in the modernization of the country’s business climate. In addition, it reaffirmed the importance of continuing to work on the issue of investment flow in Peru so that the country is seen not only as an open place for investors but also for businesses of all sizes and their trade associations.

Likewise, Peru’s new chief of state ratified the commitment to continue advancing in the simplification of all regulatory processes and to definitively eliminate bureaucratic barriers. He also announced that his intention is to prioritize the further development of municipal regulations that, he stressed, should be as uniform as possible in the entire country.

On this topic, the President also reported that, with decentralization as a central axis, the objective is to extend the initiative to other regions of the country with important productive potential, such as Arequipa, Trujillo, Piura or Cusco. In this sense, he also announced that, with greater regularity, the Government will call on representatives of economic sectors such as agriculture, mining, tourism, logistics and more, to seek new formulas of articulation that reduce bureaucratic barriers, simplify processes and generate the necessary conditions for the success of productive investments, especially in the aforementioned regions.

On the subject of investment flow in Peru, he added that “today we are giving great support and impetus to attract new investment flow to Peru and that they continue to be long term”, recognizing that only thus will it be possible to continue working on the structural change of the country and to guarantee sustained economic growth in the long term.

Impromptu inspections at police stations

In the framework of his visit to the police station in the district of Surquillo, which was executed in an improvised way, the President of the Republic also announced the fulfillment of a social promise by visiting the Surquillo police station, which was rebuilt in haste. In addition to inspecting the station, the president pointed out that he will also prioritize the facilities of the Lince Police Station.

On this occasion, the President of the Republic carried out an impromptu visit to the police station of the Lince district to verify the work conditions and identify the most urgent infrastructure requirements. The head of state was received by the district mayor, Manolo Rodríguez.

Police station in Surquillo

In the district of Surquillo, Jerí Oré walked through the premises of the police station located in San Diego Avenue, in the height of José Baquíjano, which had to be rebuilt in a hurry after the roof collapsed and had to be rebuilt. In addition to inspecting the place, the mayor of Surquillo, Cintia Loayza Álvarez, accompanied the head of state, who also announced the approval of a social promise with which the president pointed out that he will also visit the facilities of the police station in the district of Lince.

In this way, he stated that he has given priority to this security post with a new government project, due to the urgent need to rebuild it, which will be within the framework of a regional improvement project for this part of the city. The new construction, which is projected as a public security complex, would have not only the police station and its access square, but also a center for security assistance and job training, as well as a municipal theater.

The plan for the future

With these measures and the announcement of projects that will strengthen the country’s security, the administration seeks to face the security problems in the short term with permanent solutions and, in the long term, with structural improvements. It has been said that the visits are part of the President’s ongoing work program in the district and that this agenda includes an inspection tour that, on an incidental basis, is the government’s response to fulfill the social promise to rebuild the police station in the district of Surquillo and, shortly, in the district of Lince, which are the two most affected by a deterioration of their facilities. It is foreseen that soon there will be new infrastructure for these security centers in order to have better buildings.

Panama has once again positioned itself at the center of Europe’s attention as a prime destination for foreign investment. The president of the Panamanian Association of Business Executives (APEDE), Giulia De Sanctis, promoted the forum “Business Climate in Panama: An Entrepreneurial Perspective” in Rome. Held in partnership with Unindustria, the leading Italian business federation, the meeting aimed to bring the Latin American country closer to one of Europe’s most important industrial powers and assert the region’s emerging protagonism as a logistical, financial, and productive platform for access to Europe from Latin America and vice versa. “As stated in a press release by the Panamanian business group, the meeting served as a working base to promote productive and economic cooperation between both countries. The meeting’s theme and organization point to Panama’s interest in attracting Italian investment, an objective that will be achieved by showcasing the country’s open, stable, and globally connected business environment.

During her talk, De Sanctis pointed to Panama’s growth prospects, as “its economy will continue to expand by between 4% and 4.5% in 2025,” she predicted, thanks to its sound financial structure, dollarization, low inflation, and a robust service sector geared to regional trade. “Panama is a land of real opportunities,” she stressed, noting that its open, connected, and resilient economic model positions it as a unique meeting point between the Americas and Europe. That message could not have been received more enthusiastically by the Italian captains of industry, representing the industrial, energy, logistics, and financial sectors, which are already taking an active interest in the Andean region, thanks to Panama’s macroeconomic resilience and strategic location.

A Solid Bridge between the Americas and Europe

The Business Climate in Panama forum was thus intended to help consolidate Panama’s positioning as a strategic investment and commercial hub. It is a hub that is gaining strength as Panama prepares to enter the ranks of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and implements an ambitious plan to develop its infrastructure, which will exceed $20 billion in projects. Some of these include Line 3 of the Panama Metro, the Fourth Bridge on the Panama Canal, and new ports and airport terminals. The latter investments are expected to further connect the country to the world’s leading economic centers. Together, these projects will not only expand Panama’s logistical capacity but also strengthen its position as the natural bridge between the Pacific and Atlantic markets. There are, therefore, further reasons why Panama seeks to attract Italian investment, particularly in infrastructure, logistics, and high-tech value chains.

These developments are key to Panama’s role as an important node in global trade, making the Latin American country a privileged partner for European economies seeking to diversify their presence in the Western Hemisphere. Italy, whose industries are often export-led, could gain access to Latin American markets through Panama’s geographic and financial advantages, enabling a rapid and predictable commercial presence in the region.

Incentives and a Transparent Legal Framework

During her speech, De Sanctis also highlighted Panama’s special investment regimes, including the Headquarters of Multinational Companies (SEM) and the Multinational Manufacturing Services (EMMA) framework. These regimes are designed to provide fiscal incentives, legal certainty, and operational flexibility for companies establishing regional headquarters or production plants in the Andean countries. European, North American, and Asian multinational companies are already taking advantage of these favorable conditions that allow them to benefit from exemption mechanisms and stability agreements. These policies prevent investors from being harmed by changes to the legal environment and tax regime, demonstrating the government’s intention to build a long-term, pro-business ecosystem built on trust.

The Panamanian business delegation highlighted that the country is not just a financial center but also a diverse business ecosystem that offers first-class infrastructure, a skilled, bilingual workforce, and a safe, transparent regulatory framework. This combination makes Panama an effective regional hub for operational management, one that international companies can count on to deliver the speed and logistical efficiency they need to succeed in an increasingly globalized market.

Logistics, Port, and Human Capital

One of the Latin American country’s most valuable assets is its logistical infrastructure, which has enabled it to rank among the best in the region. The interconnection of the country’s port system across both oceans, the modernization of its airports, and the continuous development of digital networks enable companies to operate seamlessly in the region. In addition, human capital is also well-trained and bilingual (English and Spanish), with professionals who are increasingly competent in areas such as technology, engineering, and business administration. This competitive edge is what sets the Andean country apart from other emerging markets in the region.

Panama’s potential, De Sanctis emphasized, goes far beyond geography: “The Andean country’s macroeconomic stability, sound banking system, and first-class logistics offer Italy and the rest of Europe an ideal platform to expand their investments into Latin America. Its business environment, on the other hand, is what makes Panama unique, as the Panamanian model offers investors a rare combination of predictability, global connectivity, and human talent that is key to obtaining sustainable yields,” the president of APEDE added.

Openness, Innovation, and Sustainability

The Rome meeting was supported by the Italo-Panamanian Chamber of Commerce, one of the institutions that are multiplying between the two countries. In addition, Panama’s ambassador to Italy, Winston Spadafora, and the ambassador to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, Francisco Ameglio, were also present. They both highlighted European investors’ growing interest in Panama, and especially from Italy, in productive sectors such as renewable energy, agribusiness, sustainable tourism, and advanced logistics.

APEDE reiterated its commitment to promoting Panama abroad with three fundamental pillars: trust, transparency, and sustainability. “These will be the defining elements of the new stage of development that we are just beginning to chart as a nation and as a business community,” said De Sanctis. In that sense, Panama seeks to attract Italian investment by building an economy that is as open as it is sustainable and by making European investors feel that they have a reliable, trustworthy partner.

Italy as a Strategic Ally

Italy, with its large industrial base and technological know-how, is an ideal partner for Panama to diversify its economy. Italian companies with experience in energy, infrastructure, shipping, or advanced manufacturing could find in Panama both a commercial ally and a regional operations center. It is a center that allows them to take advantage of fiscal advantages, strategic positioning, and political stability, among other issues. This can promote technology transfer, sustainable industrial development, and strengthen bilateral trade.

Panama Seeks to Attract Italian Investment with its Open Economic Model: Conclusion

As Panama seeks to attract Italian investment, it is not just presenting itself as a destination for capital but also as a strategic partner in the European Union’s economic projection into Latin America. With its solid macroeconomic base, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and reputation for trust, Panama is increasingly consolidating itself as one of the most dynamic and forward-looking economies in the region.

Mexico’s aerospace manufacturing industry has been built in part on the success of Bombardier in Mexico. A strategic pillar of the Mexican aerospace supply chain and with a bold, long-term investment trajectory, Bombardier in Mexico has redefined the aerospace landscape in Mexico since its arrival and subsequent growth in the region. In 2006, Bombardier selected Querétaro as the site for the initial facility. This decision would not only have a significant impact on the company itself but also on the wider regional aerospace industry.

Bombardier in Mexico has continued to scale its operations, investing US $500 million in Querétaro to date and employing over 2,200 people directly, and emerging as a key economic actor in the region, bringing with it an advanced, technology-driven manufacturing platform.

Bombardier in Mexico and Aerospace Manufacturing in Querétaro

Querétaro has risen in recent decades to become one of Mexico’s leading aerospace hubs, and Bombardier has played a critical part in that story. Today, about 80 aerospace companies call Querétaro home, and the region is home to a mix of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), tier-1 and tier-2 suppliers, research institutions, and special-service providers. In fact, when Bombardier first set up operations there in 2006, it effectively launched the so-called Querétaro Aerospace Cluster. The strength of the cluster has had much to do with the kind of public-private partnerships that create demand-pull for sector development and sustain competitiveness over time. There are training/research universities specialized in aerospace; there is government support at the state level; and there is a trend of global companies setting up shop with advanced aerospace-manufacturing capabilities.

Bombardier in Mexico has been at the center of this. The Querétaro aerospace cluster is integrated with the supplier base, academic centers and other research institutions, and government actors. For example, the Universidad Aeronáutica en Querétaro (UNAQ), a local higher-education institution that opened its doors in 2007, was created with the support of the government of Querétaro and private-sector partners, and one of its initial objectives was to provide the necessary talent to local industry players such as Bombardier.

Supplier Development, Resilience, and the Supply Chain

Bombardier’s strategy in Mexico goes beyond manufacturing and capacity building to supplier development, innovation, and building resilience in aerospace supply chains. That was reflected in a recent event, the Bombardier Supplier Symposium (October 21-23), which the company organized in Querétaro in late October 2025. The symposium brought together Bombardier in Mexico, strategic suppliers, local government, academia, and the larger supply-chain ecosystem to advance innovation, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence in Mexico’s aerospace sector.

Participants discussed: How the aerospace industry could be strengthened through strategic partnerships in the supply chain, supplier development, new entrants to the tier-1/2 supplier base, and new sources of funding and financing for aerospace companies in Mexico. On the second day, Bombardier in Mexico met with local suppliers, creating an opportunity for a large number of new suppliers interested in working with the aerospace company. On the third day, Bombardier employees and suppliers volunteered as a group in a local community, Casa María Goretti (supported by Fundación La Merced), to demonstrate the company’s social responsibility commitment.

Bombardier in Mexico’s strategy also involves a comprehensive view of advanced manufacturing, including composites, electrical harnesses, aerostructures, sheet-metal machining, and more. The Querétaro facility is a center of excellence for large structural components and composite manufacturing, according to Bombardier in Mexico.

Announcing the Expansion, Anchoring Further Investment

Bombardier in Mexico recently reaffirmed its commitment to its aerospace-manufacturing site and supply chain ecosystem in Mexico with a new investment of US$18 million and the addition of 246 highly specialized jobs in Querétaro. Announced in the presence of the government of Querétaro, the latest investment is a continuation of the close collaboration between the company and state authorities.

Bombardier’s Vice President of Transformation, Tony Curry, met with Querétaro’s Governor Mauricio Kuri González and other senior officials to present the expansion of Bombardier in Mexico in the state as part of a global-scale strategy to strengthen the company’s footprint in Mexico. In his remarks, Tony Curry highlighted that the Bombardier site in Querétaro is the largest outside of Canada and also noted the collaboration between government, academia, and industry in Querétaro.

Bombardier in Mexico is, through this latest investment, making clear that it is doubling down on its high-tech, advanced aerospace manufacturing strategy — that is, building greater scale and supporting next-generation aircraft programs for global customers.

Regional Impact and Ecosystem Considerations

Bombardier in Mexico’s economic, educational, and social impact in Querétaro and the wider aerospace manufacturing ecosystem is significant. The company has provided thousands of jobs and created highly valued human capital in the aerospace sector for a region with aspirations to become a global aerospace hub, integrating advanced manufacturing skills into the local workforce. In parallel, the company’s local presence has encouraged the development of training, education, and R&D institutions, such as UNAQ or other training centers, which both support the industry and also are able to provide talent.

Bombardier in Mexico has not been limited to its industrial and education roles in the region. It has a long-standing history of involvement in social and environmental projects. For instance, Bombardier in Mexico’s original 15-year anniversary of its site in Querétaro celebrated a strategic alliance with Sierra Gorda World Biosphere Reserve and an employee-led community effort, Causa Querétaro.

In addition, it has benefited the wider aerospace cluster, as Bombardier in Mexico is building increasingly advanced capacity at its facility, which in turn has invited, encouraged, and supported domestic suppliers to scale up and specialize, producing a more sophisticated and resilient Mexican aerospace supply chain. Industry analysts suggest that the Querétaro aerospace cluster today is comparable in scale to some of the world’s most renowned hubs, such as Toulouse or Wichita.

Mexico’s Advantage: Why Bombardier in Mexico Settled in Querétaro

Bombardier in Mexico chose Querétaro for several reasons, among which are:

• Human capital and education. Querétaro’s skilled workforce and training/research institutions are specialized in aerospace manufacturing.
• Logistics advantages and proximity to Querétaro Intercontinental Airport (QRO), to name just two benefits.
• Industry-academia-government collaboration. State policies and academic institutions created with the aerospace ecosystem in mind were critical to the project.

Cost-competitiveness and proximity to market. Mexico offers manufacturing advantages in terms of costs and yet is well-positioned to serve key markets in North America. In addition, by locating there, Bombardier in Mexico could further embed into its global supply-chain strategy and benefit from near-shoring advantages.

Looking Forward: Aerospace Supply-Chain, Resilience, and Positioning

The aerospace industry is in a process of change: growing demand for business and regional jets, new aircraft programs, the ongoing effects of the pandemic, and a steep increase in digitalization and data-driven manufacturing in the aerospace sector. Bombardier in Mexico is an industrial hub that is well-positioned to participate in and support the resilience of the industry’s global supply chain. In doing so, by continuing to develop its capabilities, working with its suppliers, integrating into the Querétaro ecosystem, and investing in industrial resilience, Bombardier in Mexico is also helping to transform Mexico’s aerospace industry into a more globally competitive industrial cluster.

The company’s Supplier Symposium in October 2025, and its theme of “shared growth,” are evidence of this broader impact. Strengthening local capabilities and jointly working with both academia and the government are ways to create a virtuous circle in which business performance and community/ecosystem development are part of the same equation.

Conclusion

Bombardier in Mexico is an example of a global company with a long-term vision that has not only transformed an industrial cluster in Querétaro into a regional hub and strategic pillar in the aerospace value chain, but has created an ecosystem in which to thrive in the long term, for its employees, its suppliers, and the aerospace sector more generally. The recent investment of US$18 million and 246 new jobs at Bombardier in Mexico are evidence of a company that is not scaling down in the region, but one that is scaling up, continuing to build capacity and make Querétaro a center of excellence for aerospace manufacturing.

The Dominican Republic is seeking to shore up its self-promotion as a logistics hub in Latin America, using the strength of its links to the United States. More than US$5 billion in foreign investment is further transforming the Dominican economy from an international tourist destination to a production and distribution center in the region.

Turning from Sun & Beach to a Gateway

“The Dominican Republic is not sun and beach, it is much, much more than that,” said the Minister of Industry, Commerce and SMEs, Víctor (Ito) Bisonó, in an interview with Europa Press. The Caribbean nation, which has been “recalibrating” its international image in recent years, now aspires to be positioned as a logistics hub in Latin America, “as a gateway between the United States and Latin America,” a rebranding that puts it in competition with its neighbor, Panama, among others.

“In this case, the near-shoring (supply-chain relocation closer to final markets) gives us a huge advantage because the United States is seeking the recomposition of supply-chain logistics,” adds Bisonó. “The closest country with the greatest facilitation is the Dominican Republic, given the proximity, the country’s stability, a very skilled young labor force, and the capacity that we already have to produce important brands of medical equipment and electronics and export to the United States.”

In fact, the information shared by the minister and official sources consulted for this report echoes the characterization of the Dominican Republic as a rising manufacturing and distribution pole. Location, availability of infrastructure and free zones, and free trade agreements in hand, “we have all the cards on the table to be that logistics hub in Latin America,” Bisonó says.

The minister specifically points out as advantages of this repositioning the physical closeness to the US market (ports and airports) and by air (Dominican distance to Miami by sea is around 2 hours and by air is similar), the age of the labor force and its level of preparation, and the already known production capacity for certain high-value added categories destined for the US market. For its part, analysis provided by other industry actors indicates that over time the Dominican Republic has been able to consolidate a broad and complementary industrial ecosystem of advanced manufacturing. According to official sources, Dominican free zones host more than 850 companies, and over 60% of national exports are already channeled from free zones, with excellent logistics connectivity to external markets.

The island also has, they claim, advantages in the trade policy arena. The Dominican Republic is one of the very few countries where US tariffs on goods that meet certain eligibility criteria do not exceed 10 %, and in some cases could be lower. This policy framework, together with political, economic, and social stability, “more solid than the rest of the region,” forms part of the country’s differential for granting legal certainty to foreign investors. A more formal government position, supported by numerous analysts, is that the Dominican Republic is consolidating as a logistics hub in Latin America in a way that changes the narrative, from a purely tourist country to a modern country with an economy integrated into international value chains. Thus, for example, the director general of customs has qualified the logistics sector “as our new economic axis.”

Receiving US $ 5 Billion in Foreign Investment

The Dominican Republic receives about 30 % of the foreign investment going to Central America and the Caribbean, and as of this October, it expects to close this year with more than US $5 billion in investments.

Spanish companies in particular have made significant investments in recent years, across multiple sectors. The most active areas where Spanish capital is present include renewable energies and agro-industry, but also take advantage of the free zones. To this end, an official and business delegation participates in the week of “Dominican Week” in Spain (27-31 October), with the goal of deepening the relations of commercial and investment cooperation with Spanish firms, Spain being the country’s leading European partner. Commercial flows between Spain and the Dominican Republic already total nearly US $993.35 million, with rum, raw cocoa, and premium cigars being exported, and premium gasoline, glazed tiles, and frozen orange juice concentrate being imported, among other products.

Notable Spanish investments in the Dominican Republic include Acciona (airport construction, in Pedernales), Grupo Eulen (services), Ron Barceló (distilling), Mapfre (insurance), and Banco Sabadell (finance). Among Dominican entrepreneurs of Spanish origin, the presence of large platforms and hardware store chains, owned by second and third-generation Spanish-Dominicans, stands out.

Main Infrastructure Developments: Ports, Routes, and Free Zones

One of the flagship projects of these next months that will help cement this transformation is the new maritime route between the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. To cover the route, Baleària, an experienced player in ferry connections, has announced services. “In the Dominican Republic, everything is ready and permitted; what remains is the Puerto Rico side,” the minister indicated.

The logistics infrastructure in place or being put into place is not negligible. For example, the Multimodal Caucedo Port, currently managed by DP World, as well as the associated free-trade zones, can be considered an integrated maritime-industrial-logistics ecosystem. Port experts point out that goods shipped from Dominican ports to various US East Coast destinations arrive in just 3 to 4 days, much faster than those from Asia.

Likewise, the network of free zones is not anecdotal: as mentioned, more than 850 companies are installed in these more than 60% of total exports, many of them in electronics, medical devices, and manufacturing. Thus, from production to commercialization, the Dominican Republic is presenting itself as a logistics hub in Latin America capable of offering complete chains of manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution, and integration into US, Latin American, and Caribbean markets. This model makes it particularly attractive for businesses looking to nearshore or diversify away from longer and more vulnerable supply chains.

Outlook and Challenges

In short, by betting on the relocation of supply chains and nearshoring as a key pillar for its economic diversification, the Dominican Republic is not only betting on the momentum of a logistics brand that helps it break the image of being a one-trick economic pony focused on tourism, but it is in fact re-positioning itself as the leading logistics hub in Latin America for those firms that decide to relocate or diversify outside Asia.

The country’s geographical advantages, coupled with a diversified infrastructure with deep investment experience, a free trade agreement with the United States, and financial incentives to attract investment, among other ingredients, seem to be more than enough for the Dominican Republic to start to rebrand itself as a logistics hub in Latin America. This points to it not only being on the rise, but in fact setting out to change its economic identity.

However, both the government and industry sources interviewed for this report recognize that there is still work to do in order to gain positions in the center of the logistics chessboard in Latin America. Infrastructure, improvement of regulations, skills and training of the labor force, and investment in the digitalization of the supply chain are some of the areas of improvement mentioned in this regard.

Restrictions on industrialization and domestic sales prevent the region from realizing its full potential. Across Latin America, free zones have become powerful drivers of industrial, technological, and logistical development. In the Dominican Republic, they generate more than 200,000 direct jobs and lead the country’s exports. In Colombia, they account for 6.4% of total exports and 2.6% of GDP, in an ecosystem where 90% of the companies operating within them are micro, small, or medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). Meanwhile, in Argentina, the La Plata Free Zone, one of the largest and most strategically located in the country, continues to hold tremendous potential that is only partially utilized. Its development could mirror the positive outcomes achieved by similar regimes across the region if its regulatory framework were modernized to enable broader productive activity.

Strategic Location and Untapped Capacity

Located in Ensenada and connected by major highways to Argentina’s principal industrial corridor, the La Plata Free Zone spans 70 hectares prepared for industrial and logistical operations. It features modern infrastructure, warehouses, security services, and direct access to Greater Buenos Aires. Yet despite this strategic foundation, its current legal framework—defined by Law 24.331—significantly limits its scope. Productive manufacturing inside the zone is not allowed; only storage, fractioning, assembly, and repackaging are permitted. Furthermore, production destined for the domestic market is prohibited, even if all applicable taxes are paid. This stands in sharp contrast to leading regional models, in which free zones operate as full-scale industrial, service, and technology hubs.

Lessons from the Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic demonstrates how free zones can serve as strategic pillars of national development. The country hosts nearly 90 zones that collectively generate 200,000 direct and 600,000 indirect jobs, according to Deputy Minister Johannes Kelner. Since the 1990s, Law 8-90 has attracted foreign investment, fostered local innovation, and diversified the export base. Today, the Dominican Republic exports goods and services ranging from medical devices and tobacco to software and finance. Significantly, the benefits extend to small enterprises as well: numerous small tobacco firms have developed their own brands and now sell in markets across Europe and the United States. Additionally, the country is moving into emerging sectors such as semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, supported by a long-term strategy and workforce development.

The Colombian Model of Regulatory Stability

Colombia’s experience also underscores the importance of regulatory clarity in unlocking the potential of free zones. According to the national Free Zone Users Association, 90% of the businesses operating across Colombia’s 119 free zones are micro, small, or medium-sized enterprises. This concentration fosters dynamic business ecosystems with shared infrastructure and access to technology. In 2023, Colombian free zones exported USD 3.39 billion—equivalent to 6.4% of total national exports—and contributed 2.6% of GDP. The success of this model is rooted in a stable, investment-oriented legal framework, particularly Law 1004 of 2005, which has encouraged both foreign and domestic participation in productive ventures.

Argentina’s Limitations and the Need for Modernization

In contrast to these regional examples, Argentina maintains a more restrictive and fragmented approach. Free zones currently operating in La Plata, Córdoba, Mendoza, San Luis, Chubut, and Santa Cruz function primarily as logistics hubs rather than integrated industrial platforms. Within this context, the La Plata Free Zone remains strategically important due to its proximity to key ports, Buenos Aires, and major industrial districts. Its advantages position it as a natural platform for international trade, input storage, and export logistics, yet its productive contribution remains underdeveloped.

A Global Opportunity for Transformation

The global shift toward nearshoring—relocating supply chains closer to end markets—has created a historic opportunity for Latin America. Free zones are among the primary recipients of this investment trend due to their operational flexibility and competitive tax frameworks. With a modern regulatory framework enabling manufacturing, technological integration, and global service operations, the La Plata Free Zone could evolve into a regional industrial and logistical hub capable of attracting investment, boosting exports, and strengthening employment throughout Buenos Aires Province. International evidence shows that free zones are not merely mechanisms for trade—they are engines of productive transformation that enable export diversification, technological upgrading, knowledge transfer, and the creation of high-quality jobs.

Conclusion: Unlocking Value Through Reform

To achieve this potential, Argentina needs a modernized, globally competitive regulatory framework focused on value creation and industrial development. Free zones must transition from storage-oriented facilities into engines of growth and innovation. Only then can the La Plata Free Zone realize its role as a transformative driver of economic development and international integration, rather than a strategic asset constrained by outdated legislation.

At the Summit Invest Forum, leading economists, corporate executives, and business strategists gathered to debate the key challenges of business and investment in Bolivia. The high-level event brought together national and international participants to exchange ideas, identify obstacles to growth, and explore opportunities for innovation and competitiveness in the Bolivian market. One of the central moments of the forum was the presentation by economist Hugo Siles, who unveiled the much-anticipated Ranking of the 500 Largest Companies in Bolivia 2025. This comprehensive study evaluates the structure, contribution, and resilience of the country’s most significant business players in a challenging macroeconomic environment.

Held in the dynamic city of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, often considered Bolivia’s economic capital, Summit Invest Bolivia 2025 served as a platform for dialogue between the public and private sectors. The forum attracted analysts, investors, academics, and business leaders from across the country, who examined the current state of the Bolivian economy, the factors affecting its competitiveness, and the outlook for medium-term recovery.

Organized with the support of the National Chamber of Industries (CNI), Cainco, and Economy magazine as a strategic partner, the event emphasized collaboration and evidence-based discussion. The forum’s highlight was, without doubt, the presentation of the Ranking of the 500 Largest Companies in Bolivia 2025, prepared by renowned economist Hugo Siles Espada. In his remarks, Siles underlined the importance of maintaining a formal, organized, and transparent business sector amid the country’s current economic slowdown and declining levels of private and foreign investment. He argued that despite the constraints on liquidity, trade, and production, Bolivia’s formal companies have continued to demonstrate resilience and adaptability.

According to Siles, the ranking paints a nuanced picture of Bolivia’s economy. While many sectors are under stress, the core of the business community remains solid. The data revealed that the 500 largest companies collectively generate more than 80% of the formal GDP, employ approximately 350,000 people directly, and contribute about 60% of national tax revenues. These firms serve as the backbone of Bolivia’s formal economy, driving innovation, job creation, and sustainable growth even amid structural challenges.

However, Siles warned that Bolivia’s business ecosystem is under mounting pressure due to persistent foreign currency shortages, import restrictions, and rising costs for raw materials and logistics. The country’s dual currency market, where an official exchange rate coexists with a higher parallel rate, has complicated business operations, limiting access to dollars needed for imports and investment. “The lack of dollars and fuel affects all sectors across the board,” Siles said. “Nevertheless, formal enterprises have maintained stability in production and employment. This ranking shows that the private sector continues to be the true engine of the economy and a key driver of sustainable investment in Bolivia.”

Siles also pointed to broader macroeconomic vulnerabilities. If the current conditions persist, he warned, GDP growth could close the year below 1.5%, while the fiscal deficit remains at about 8% of GDP. International reserves continue to fall below US$3.5 billion. Such figures, he argued, are unsustainable in the long run. “These indicators call for a new economic and fiscal pact between the State and the private sector—a shared vision for a competitive and diversified Bolivia,” he emphasized.

Macroeconomic Discipline and Confidence

Former President of the Central Bank of Bolivia (BCB), Juan Antonio Morales, provided a sobering analysis of the country’s fiscal and monetary imbalances. Morales argued that Bolivia’s economic model, which has relied heavily on public spending and state intervention over the past two decades, is clearly exhausted. “The accumulated public deficit, hovering around Bs 30 billion annually, combined with growing current expenditure, is simply unsustainable without a major structural adjustment,” he warned.

Morales emphasized the need for a more transparent and realistic exchange rate policy to close the widening gap between the official and parallel exchange markets. “The market cannot function under constant uncertainty,” he said. “Predictability is essential if the productive sector is to plan effectively and investors are to regain confidence in investment in Bolivia.” He added that a credible monetary policy—backed by fiscal discipline and institutional independence—is crucial to restoring macroeconomic stability and encouraging capital inflows.

The former central banker also drew attention to the inflationary pressures that accumulated throughout 2024, when the inflation rate reached 9.97%. Combined with the loss of industrial competitiveness, these factors have severely affected Bolivia’s ability to attract foreign direct investment, which has fallen to below US$400 million per year, one of the lowest levels in Latin America. Morales noted that this figure stands in stark contrast to neighboring countries such as Chile, Colombia, and Peru, which each attract several billion dollars in foreign capital annually. The decline, he argued, underscores the urgent need for Bolivia to rebuild its reputation as a stable and attractive destination for investors.

Productivity and Innovation as the Way Forward

The forum also heard from Pablo Mendieta, Director of the Bolivian Center for Economic Studies (Cebec) at Cainco, who stressed that Bolivia is at a critical juncture. Mendieta called for a new development model anchored in productivity, innovation, and digital transformation. “Seventy percent of Bolivia’s workforce is in the informal sector,” he said. “A country cannot achieve sustained growth with such a large portion of its labor force operating outside the formal economy.”

Mendieta argued that Bolivia must double its private investment—currently about 9% of GDP—to sustain growth rates above 4% per year. “Competitiveness, innovation, and the attraction of investment in Bolivia are the keys to a new economic cycle,” he declared. “We must shift from a subsidy-driven model to one based on value creation, technological advancement, and industrial diversification.”

He also emphasized that Santa Cruz remains the heart of the country’s productive and entrepreneurial activity, contributing more than 30% of Bolivia’s GDP. The department’s agricultural, industrial, and service sectors continue to drive national growth. Yet, Mendieta warned that persistent logistical bottlenecks, infrastructure gaps, and regulatory bureaucracy limit Santa Cruz’s export potential and constrain private investment in Bolivia. He urged the government to adopt a comprehensive infrastructure modernization agenda—expanding roads, ports, and energy networks—to better connect Bolivia to regional and global markets.

Evolution of the Bolivian Economy

Financial analyst Luis Enrique Herrera provided a historical perspective on Bolivia’s economic evolution, tracing key reforms that shaped the country’s modern economy. He highlighted the Investment and Privatization Laws of 1992 and the Capitalization Law of 1994, both of which played a crucial role in revitalizing the economy during the 1990s. These reforms encouraged foreign participation, raised transparency standards, and boosted efficiency in strategic sectors such as telecommunications, hydrocarbons, and energy. As a result, foreign direct investment surged from virtually zero to around US$900 million annually by the end of the decade.

Herrera noted that the repatriation of capital between 1989 and 1991—supported by Central Bank incentives—stimulated growth, especially in Santa Cruz. This policy environment attracted multinational corporations that contributed to industrial diversification, technological transfer, and job creation. Companies like Cervecería Boliviana Nacional (CBN) became symbols of how a favorable business climate could attract global investors and promote sustainable investment in Bolivia.

He explained that during this period, public investment was strategically used to complement and enhance private investment, forming a model of balanced and diversified growth that delivered tangible benefits for nearly a decade. However, Herrera contrasted this with the subsequent two decades under the Movement Toward Socialism (MAS) governments, which, he argued, adopted a more state-centric and interventionist approach. According to him, widespread expropriations and policy uncertainty undermined investor confidence, leading to a sharp fall in foreign direct investment that never recovered to pre-2006 levels.

Despite these setbacks, Herrera suggested that Bolivia retains considerable untapped potential. The country’s natural resources, youthful population, and geographic position at the heart of South America could position it as a regional logistics and energy hub—if supported by sound governance and clear market rules. He concluded that restoring investor trust and promoting a consistent regulatory environment are essential to reinvigorate long-term investment in Bolivia.

Looking Ahead: A Call for Structural Reform

Throughout the Summit Invest Forum, participants emphasized that Bolivia stands at a crossroads. With economic growth slowing, fiscal pressures rising, and international reserves shrinking, the country must define a new development strategy that balances macroeconomic discipline with private-sector dynamism. All panelists agreed that deeper structural reforms—focusing on productivity, innovation, and competitiveness—are necessary to unlock the next wave of growth.

Above all, the discussions reaffirmed that sustained investment in Bolivia requires a stable and predictable business environment, one that fosters trust between the public and private sectors. By encouraging collaboration, reducing red tape, and modernizing infrastructure, Bolivia can strengthen its resilience and position itself once again as a magnet for both domestic and international investors.

At the Summit Invest in Bolivia Forum, leading economists, corporate executives, and business strategists gathered to debate the key challenges of business and investment in Bolivia. The high-level event brought together national and international participants to exchange ideas, identify obstacles to growth, and explore opportunities for innovation and competitiveness in the Bolivian market. One of the central moments of the forum was the presentation by economist Hugo Siles, who unveiled the much-anticipated Ranking of the 500 Largest Companies in Bolivia 2025. This comprehensive study evaluates the structure, contribution, and resilience of the country’s most significant business players in a challenging macroeconomic environment.

Held in the dynamic city of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, often considered the economic capital of Bolivia, Summit Invest Bolivia 2025 became a platform for dialogue between the public and private sectors. The forum attracted analysts, investors, academics, and business leaders from across the country, who examined the current state of the Bolivian economy, the factors affecting its competitiveness, and the outlook for medium-term recovery.

Organized with the support of the National Chamber of Industries (CNI), Cainco, and Economy Magazine as a strategic partner, the event emphasized collaboration and evidence-based discussion. The forum’s highlight was, without doubt, the presentation of the Ranking of the 500 Largest Companies in Bolivia 2025, prepared by renowned economist Hugo Siles Espada. In his remarks, Siles underlined the importance of maintaining a formal, organized, and transparent business sector amid the country’s current economic slowdown and declining levels of private and foreign investment. He argued that despite the constraints on liquidity, trade, and production, Bolivia’s formal companies have continued to demonstrate resilience and adaptability.

According to Siles, the ranking paints a nuanced picture of Bolivia’s economy. While many sectors are under stress, the core of the business community remains solid. The data revealed that the 500 largest companies collectively generate more than 80% of the formal GDP, employ approximately 350,000 people directly, and contribute about 60% of national tax revenues. These firms serve as the backbone of Bolivia’s formal economy, driving innovation, job creation, and sustainable growth even in the face of structural challenges.

However, Siles warned that Bolivia’s business ecosystem is under mounting pressure due to the persistent shortage of foreign currency, import restrictions, and rising costs of raw materials and logistics. The country’s dual currency market—where an official exchange rate coexists with a higher parallel rate—has complicated business operations, limiting access to dollars needed for imports and investment. “The lack of dollars and fuel affects all sectors across the board,” Siles said. “Nevertheless, formal enterprises have maintained stability in production and employment. This ranking shows that the private sector continues to be the true engine of the economy and a key driver of sustainable investment in Bolivia.”

Siles also pointed to broader macroeconomic vulnerabilities. If the current conditions persist, he warned, GDP growth could close the year below 1.5%, while the fiscal deficit remains at about 8% of GDP. International reserves continue to fall below US$3.5 billion. Such figures, he argued, are unsustainable in the long run. “These indicators call for a new economic and fiscal pact between the State and the private sector—a shared vision for a competitive and diversified Bolivia,” he emphasized