The Paraguayan maquila industry has emerged as a critical driver of the country’s industrial growth, demonstrating its significant potential in advancing the manufacturing sector. Representing 68% of Paraguay’s manufactured product exports and 10% of its total foreign sales, the Paraguayan maquila industry has established itself as a critical player in the national economy. In the first half of 2023 alone, maquila exports reached USD 618 million, with projections of over USD 1 billion for the entire year. This article will explore the vast array of products manufactured in the Paraguayan maquila industry and highlight how this sector contributes to the country’s economic development.

The Maquila System: A Pillar of Employment and Foreign Currency Generation

The Paraguayan maquila industry is a major contributor to export revenues and a significant source of employment. It directly supports approximately 27,000 families through the 308 companies operating under the approved regime. These companies benefit from preferential economic conditions, including tax incentives, to promote industrial development in the country. This, in turn, boosts foreign direct investment and helps diversify Paraguay’s economy, further embedding the Paraguayan maquila industry into the nation’s broader industrial fabric.

Natalia Cáceres, Executive Secretary of the National Council of Export Maquiladora Industries (CNIME), emphasized the collaboration between the public and private sectors, which is critical to fostering industrialization in Paraguay. “We are working hand in hand to demonstrate how the Paraguayan maquila industry is driving industrial development in Paraguay,” Cáceres remarked, underlining the importance of this regime in shaping the country’s industrial landscape. This collaboration also paves the way for attracting more foreign investments, as demonstrated by initiatives such as the recent Maquila Business Forum.

Key Sectors and Products of the Paraguayan Maquila Industry

The Paraguayan maquila industry spans a wide range of sectors, some traditional and others more innovative. The core manufacturing sectors under the maquila regime include auto parts, textiles, and plastics. These industries have long been part of Paraguay’s maquila landscape and remain vital to the country’s export economy.

However, the Paraguayan maquila industry has significantly diversified in recent years, with the aluminum sector experiencing increased participation. Aluminum processing, in particular, has opened up new export opportunities and reflects a broader trend toward diversification in the Paraguayan maquila industry.

Auto Parts: Powering the Automotive Industry

Auto parts manufacturing is one of the most traditional sectors within the Paraguayan maquila industry. Companies in this sector produce many components, including parts for engines, electrical systems, and vehicle bodies. The high-quality auto parts manufactured in Paraguay are primarily exported to neighboring countries in South America, such as Brazil and Argentina, with robust automotive industries. By producing these parts locally, Paraguay’s maquila companies play a critical role in supporting the regional automotive supply chain.

Textiles: A Longstanding Staple

Textile production is another key industry within the Paraguayan maquila industry. Paraguay has a long history of textile manufacturing, and this sector continues to be a significant export driver under the maquila system. The country produces various textile products, including clothing, fabrics, and yarns. Paraguayan textiles are exported to markets across the Americas and beyond, benefiting from the country’s strategic location and preferential trade agreements.

Plastics: Essential Components for Multiple Industries

Plastic manufacturing is also a cornerstone of the Paraguayan maquila industry, producing goods essential for various industries, including packaging, automotive, and consumer goods. Companies involved in plastics manufacturing benefit from advanced technologies and streamlined processes, enabling them to produce high-quality plastic components for domestic use and export.

Emerging Sectors: Diversification and Innovation

While the traditional sectors of auto parts, textiles, and plastics continue to thrive, the Paraguayan maquila industry has seen notable diversification, with emerging industries contributing to its growing global footprint.

Aluminum: A Growing Player in the Global Market

Aluminum has recently become a prominent sector, with increased production and exports. Paraguay’s growing aluminum industry highlights the maquila system’s ability to adapt to changing global demands and capitalize on new opportunities in the manufacturing sector. The country’s strategic focus on developing its aluminum industry is helping it establish a more substantial presence in international markets, particularly in the automotive and construction industries.

Bovine and Swine Casings: Niche Products for the Food Industry

Paraguay’s maquiladora industry has also succeeded in niche markets, such as producing bovine and swine sausage casings. Meatpacking plants process these products and export them to markets like Spain and the Netherlands. The processing of casings demonstrates the maquila’s ability to diversify its production base and meet the demands of specialized global markets.

Paddles and Synthetic Fibers: New Opportunities

In recent years, Paraguay’s maquila industry has expanded into new and innovative product lines, including paddles, catering to paddle tennis’s growing popularity worldwide. Additionally, synthetic fibers for concrete reinforcement represent another area of growth, as these fibers are in high demand in the construction industry.

Grated Coconut, Electric Bicycles, and Biodiesel: A Diverse Product Portfolio

The diversification of the Paraguayan maquila industry extends to various other products, including grated coconut, electric bicycles, and biodiesel. These products are exported under the preferential maquila regime, showcasing Paraguay’s comprehensive manufacturing capabilities. Grated coconut, for example, is exported to European and Asian markets, while electric bicycles and biodiesel reflect the country’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.

Automation and Technological Advancements: Simplifying Procedures for Entrepreneurs

One key factor driving the success of the Paraguayan maquila industry is the ongoing effort to simplify and automate processes. Through the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MIC), the Paraguayan government has introduced advanced technologies to streamline export procedures. The recent launch of an export module has significantly reduced the time required for shipping from 24 hours to just 1 minute. These technological advancements help eliminate bureaucratic hurdles and create a more business-friendly environment for local and foreign entrepreneurs.

A United Effort to Attract Foreign Investment

The Maquila Business Forum, organized by the Chamber of Maquila Companies of Paraguay (Cemap), showcased the unified efforts of the public and private sectors to attract more investment to Paraguay. By automating and simplifying procedures, the Paraguayan maquila industry is becoming increasingly efficient, which sends a strong signal to foreign entrepreneurs that Paraguay is an attractive destination for investment.

“We want foreign entrepreneurs to know that investing in Paraguay is easy, efficient, and safe,” said Natalia Cáceres, highlighting the advantages of doing business there. With all maquila-related procedures now 100% electronic and interconnected across institutions, Paraguay offers a streamlined and transparent process for investors looking to establish operations under the maquila regime.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for the Paraguayan Maquila Industry

The Paraguayan maquila industry is a critical engine of industrial development, providing employment, generating foreign currency, and driving diversification across critical sectors. From traditional industries like auto parts, textiles, and plastics to emerging sectors like aluminum, bovine and swine casings, and electric bicycles, the Paraguayan maquila industry is propelling Paraguay into new global markets. With strong government support, technological advancements, and a focus on innovation, the maquila regime is set to continue its pivotal role in Paraguay’s industrial and economic growth.

According to the latest JLL Research report, “Nearshoring: Unveiling the Potential of Latin America,” Colombia has established itself as one of the most promising emerging markets for relocating industrial and service operations to Latin America. This phenomenon is driven by the growing need to improve the resilience of global supply chains. This surge in nearshoring in Latin America has shifted the business landscape as companies seek more stable and cost-efficient alternatives to traditional outsourcing destinations.

The study highlights that Colombia has the potential to increase its exports by approximately $1.498 billion, representing an 11% growth compared to its current non-commodity exports. This growth is driven by a unique combination of competitive operating costs, a young and skilled workforce, and a strategic location with access to Pacific and Caribbean coasts, making it an attractive destination for businesses pursuing nearshoring opportunities.

Strategic Advantages of Colombia

One key reason for Colombia’s prominence in the realm of nearshoring in the region is its improving logistics infrastructure and favorable tax incentives, particularly within industrial free zones. These factors significantly enhance Colombia’s competitiveness compared to other countries. Bogotá and Medellín are key cities, boasting a growing business ecosystem and modern real estate infrastructure designed to attract foreign investment. Both cities offer high connectivity to global markets, making them ideal for companies seeking to establish operations near crucial consumer and business hubs.

Key Figures from the JLL Report:

• Potential export growth: $1.498 billion (11%)
• Highlighted cities: Bogotá and Medellín
• Competitive infrastructure: Free zones and industrial parks with lower rental costs compared to other cities in the region
• Workforce: Highly qualified, with lower operating costs compared to other emerging markets in Latin America

According to Rodrigo Torres, Director of Research for Latin America at JLL, “Colombia is well-positioned to capture a significant percentage of the relocation of industries seeking alternatives closer to their main markets, such as the United States. This presents great opportunities to generate employment, increase exports, and diversify the country’s economy.” This statement underscores how nearshoring in the region, particularly in Colombia, offers significant potential for business expansion, especially in industries like manufacturing, IT services, and logistics.

Regional Comparison: Nearshoring in Latin America

The report evaluates various Latin American markets based on critical indicators, including the business environment, foreign investment track record, labor availability and cost, real estate infrastructure, proximity to the U.S., and logistical performance. In addition to Colombia, the report highlights other emerging countries as critical players in nearshoring. Mexico, Brazil, and Costa Rica stand out as regional leaders.

Mexico: Renowned for its strategic location and large economy, Mexico continues to serve as both a hub for exports and a destination market. Nearshoring in Latin America is strongly tied to Mexico’s ability to leverage its proximity to the U.S. and its industrial solid clusters, particularly in the automotive and aerospace sectors.

Brazil: With Latin America’s largest economy and population, Brazil is distinguished by its robust logistical infrastructure. However, the country faces challenges in regulatory complexity and higher operating costs than its regional counterparts.

Costa Rica: Known for its favorable business environment and well-established foreign investment ecosystems, Costa Rica is a major player in sectors like life sciences and IT. The country has capitalized on regional nearshoring by attracting shared services centers and multinational corporations.

Panama: Panama is quickly emerging as the region’s logistics hub, thanks to its strategic location and the Panama Canal, which facilitates international trade and distribution.

Key Findings from the Report:

• Mexico stands out for its unrivaled location and economic size.
• Brazil combines the best logistical performance with the largest economy in the region.
• Costa Rica and Chile excel due to their favorable business environments.
• Panama emerges as the region’s logistics hub.
• Colombia shows solid performance across multiple dimensions of nearshoring in Latin America.
• Argentina and Peru offer skilled and affordable labor forces, making them competitive.

Opportunities and Challenges

Nearshoring in Latin America offers numerous advantages for companies looking to expand or relocate their operations. The cost efficiency of operating in Latin American countries, where wages and operational expenses are generally lower than in developed markets, is a primary driver of this trend. Additionally, nearshoring provides greater cultural alignment and better collaboration due to similar time zones, language, and cultural similarities between Latin America and major markets such as the U.S.

Moreover, nearshoring allows companies to optimize supply chains, reduce delivery times, and improve customer service by positioning their operations closer to their end markets. This has become particularly critical as companies seek to mitigate risks associated with supply chain disruptions caused by global events.

However, there are challenges to consider. Countries like Mexico face water scarcity, energy reliability, and security issues, which can impact business operations. Despite these challenges, nearshoring in the Latin American region continues to attract interest from companies looking to relocate parts of their production closer to key markets.

Successful case studies

San José, Costa Rica: The transformation of call centers into shared services centers for large corporations like Roche, Equifax, JLL, and Pfizer highlights Costa Rica’s success in the nearshoring trend. The country’s skilled workforce, political stability, and commitment to sustainability have made it a top destination for life sciences and technology companies.

Mexico: Mexico’s automotive industry leads the nearshoring movement, with significant investments from companies such as BMW, Ford, and Honda. The country’s proximity to the U.S. and well-established industrial base reduce transit times and transportation costs for companies operating in these sectors.

Guatemala: Emerging as a regional hub for call centers, Guatemala offers low real estate costs and affordable wages, making outsourcing business processing operations attractive.

These examples illustrate how nearshoring in Latin America has become a viable strategy for companies across various sectors. It offers cost-effective solutions while enhancing operational efficiency.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Nearshoring in Latin America

Nearshoring in Latin America presents a unique opportunity for U.S. and global companies looking to diversify their production locations and minimize operational risks. With key markets such as Mexico, Brazil, and Costa Rica leading the charge, the region is well-positioned to attract foreign investment and foster economic growth.

Colombia, in particular, stands out due to its strategic advantages, competitive operating costs, and growing infrastructure. As companies continue to explore nearshoring options in Latin America, Colombia is likely to emerge as a top destination for industries looking to relocate their operations closer to key markets in North America. The ongoing nearshoring trend is expected to boost the region’s economic development, create jobs, and enhance supply chain resilience across Latin America.

The United States has put forward several labor and environmental standards proposals, which they hope will benefit both the U.S. and Peru. During a recent visit to Peru, José Fernández, U.S. Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment, expressed a strong interest in strengthening sectors such as U.S. investment in Peruvian mining and foreign trade. His visit resulted in signing a memorandum of understanding with the Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This agreement aims to reinforce governance in critical minerals, enhance investment opportunities, and secure global supply chains between the two countries.

Beyond Copper: Securing Critical Minerals for the Future

“This agreement is not just about copper; it’s about critical minerals in general,” Fernández emphasized. “Naturally, copper is an essential mineral for the energy transition, but it goes much further. Lithium could be another metal.” His remarks underline that U.S. investment in Peruvian mining is essential for creating secure, sustainable, and reliable supply chains for critical minerals that are crucial for the energy transition and other strategic industries.

Fernández further highlighted the importance of these supply chains, stating that “it is a national security priority” for both Peru and the United States. He pointed out that global market models are already in place for strategic minerals, with demand expected to increase exponentially. According to estimates, this demand is projected to rise “100-fold” by 2050 to meet climate goals. U.S. investment in Peruvian mining will play a crucial role in meeting this growing demand and addressing the significant challenge of securing these vital minerals for the future.

National Security and the Energy Transition

“Meeting this demand will pose a huge challenge for our nations,” Fernández noted, “because if we cannot secure these minerals, we will not be able to meet the (environmental) goals we have.” This sentiment underscores the essential role that Peru will play in the global efforts to transition to greener energy and meet climate objectives, mainly through its rich deposits of copper, lithium, and other critical minerals.

Facilitating, Not Dictating: The Role of U.S. Companies

In addition, Fernández clarified that the recent agreement between the U.S. and Peru aims to strengthen bilateral ties without being a direct instrument of U.S. foreign policy. He rejected the notion that U.S. companies operating in Peru simply fulfill government objectives. “China can tell its companies to invest; by law, they are instruments of the Chinese government. We cannot do the same with American companies,” he explained. “I cannot tell Newmont that they have to invest in Peru. That’s not what this is about. That’s why we have this agreement.”

Ethical and Sustainable Investments in Peruvian Mining

Instead, the agreement facilitates collaboration, offering U.S. companies access to key stakeholders within Peru’s Ministry of Energy and Mines. “We can provide information; we have access to people in the Ministry of Energy and Mines who can answer questions, meaning we can facilitate but not order. This means that our investments sometimes take more time, but they are not foreign policy instruments,” Fernández noted. He emphasized that U.S. investments prioritize ethical and sustainable practices, aligning with shared values between the two nations.

“We offer to work with communities, to benefit countries because there are many examples of projects that did not follow the best standards and did not succeed,” Fernández added. He stressed that the success of U.S. investment in Peruvian mining projects hinges on a commitment to upholding ethical and sustainable practices. This includes respect for local communities, compliance with labor laws, and adherence to environmental regulations—fundamental values that U.S. companies bring to their investments abroad.

Peru’s Role in the Minerals Security Partnership

Fernández also pointed out that U.S. investment in Peruvian mining will benefit significantly from Peru’s participation in the Minerals Security Partnership. This international initiative seeks to strengthen the critical metals supply chain, ensuring secure access to these essential resources. “Being a member of the forum also allows Peru direct access to the 15 partners who are members of this partnership,” he explained. The partnership offers financial backing for critical minerals projects, further boosting the potential for U.S. investment in this sector. With these resources, Peru is better positioned to expand its role as a global leader in critical mineral production.

Expanding U.S. Investment Beyond Mining

While mining remains a crucial area of interest, U.S. investment in Peru extends beyond this sector. Fernández led a business mission to explore investment opportunities in various industries. “We leave with a vision of a country that, not only in the mining field but also in IT, technology, health, and many other fields, is ready to receive investment from the United States and other countries,” he affirmed.

Growth in Trade Relations: A Positive Trend

Fernández elaborated on the success of trade and investment relations between the two countries, noting that trade between Peru and the U.S. has nearly tripled since the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) signing. “Today it’s almost $27 billion, compared to $9 billion 15 years ago; in addition, we have nearly $7 billion in investment.” This growth is a testament to the strong economic ties between the two nations, with U.S. investment in Peruvian mining playing a pivotal role in driving this expansion.

Job Creation Through U.S. Investments

As U.S. companies continue to invest in Peru, they have also contributed to significant job creation. “We have created more than 1.1 million jobs through U.S. investment in this country,” Fernández said, underscoring the positive impact of these investments on Peru’s labor market. U.S. companies ensure their investments are mutually beneficial by adhering to high labor and environmental responsibility standards.

U.S. Approach: Strengthening Offers, Not Imposing Choices

However, Fernández clarified that U.S. investment in Peru does not come with strings attached. “That’s our offer, but it’s never about telling a country not to have relations with China or anyone else because we have significant commercial relationships with China,” he said. The U.S. approach is centered around providing a better investment offer, allowing Peru to weigh the options and choose what aligns best with its development goals.

Conclusion: A Cornerstone for Future Cooperation

U.S. investment in Peruvian mining continues to be a cornerstone of this bilateral relationship. By focusing on sustainability, collaboration with local communities, and securing critical mineral supply chains, this partnership aims to benefit both nations and contribute to global energy transition efforts. Fernández concluded, “It’s simply about improving the offer and then letting the country compare.”

In conclusion, U.S. investment in Peruvian mining remains a cornerstone of the strong bilateral relationship between the two nations, driving economic growth and fostering ethical and sustainable practices in critical mineral supply chains. Beyond mining, U.S. interest extends into other sectors such as IT, technology, and health, highlighting Peru’s potential as a diverse and attractive destination for foreign investment. As this partnership continues to evolve, U.S. investment in Peruvian mining, alongside emerging opportunities in these additional industries, will play a crucial role in enhancing Peru’s development and its position in the global economy.

After the Ministry of Environment (MA) signed a resolution authorizing Google to install a data center in the Science Park in Canelones, the tech giant announced an investment of over $850 million in Uruguay to construct this center on August 29, 2024. This significant Google data center investment in Uruguay marks a pivotal moment in the country’s technological and economic development.

Strategic Importance of the Data Center

During his speech, Eduardo López, President of Google Cloud in Latin America, emphasized that today, in economies, “processing, information, and connectivity are fundamental factors for economies to develop, to generate talent, and to create jobs.” Therefore, he considered it essential for Google to create a data center that would allow it to “evolve”; “not only for Google but also by providing a tool of transformation for the countries and societies where we are located.” The Google data center investment in Uruguay is expected to play a crucial role in this transformative process, benefiting the region and contributing to a global network of 28 data centers in 11 countries that support all Google products worldwide.

In that sense, López noted that the data center “will not only serve the region” but is “part of the network of 28 data centers in 11 countries that provide services to all our products worldwide.” The broader impact of the Google data center investment in Uruguay is anticipated to extend beyond national borders, making it a strategic hub in Google’s global infrastructure.

Sustainability at the Core

The Minister of Industry, Energy, and Mining, Elisa Facio, highlighted that the project is “innovative” from a sustainability perspective, as it “will use air instead of water for cooling.” “This is a factor highly valued by us as a government, as we are firmly committed to promoting environmentally friendly production.” She also stated that Uruguay “has made sustainability a part of its production strategy,” which she considered a “key factor” for economic development. The sustainable approach of the Google data center investment in Uruguay aligns with the country’s environmental goals, ensuring that technological advancement does not come at the cost of ecological integrity.

“We believe that the ability to develop this project without significantly altering CO2 emission levels is a value in itself,” the minister emphasized, expressing her gratitude for “the work carried out with UTE, which provided support and assistance in addressing this and other concerns that could be associated with a project of this nature.” The Google data center investment in Uruguay is thus being hailed for its economic potential and commitment to sustainability.

Government Support and Future Prospects

Meanwhile, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and former Minister of Industry, Energy, and Mining, Omar Paganini, expressed the government’s “satisfaction” with “this project finally coming to fruition” and that “this is the kind of thing Uruguay needs to keep doing”: “being very open to projects from this type of company, these kinds of ventures that aim at the future.” Completing the Google data center investment in Uruguay represents a successful collaboration that will likely pave the way for further high-tech investments in the country.

Advocacy and Strategic Planning

In a press conference, the vice-presidential candidate for the Frente Amplio (FA), Carolina Cosse, said that the project was developed “with a great team from Antel” that managed to create an undersea fiber optic cable with Google, which “enabled a work trajectory.” According to Cosse, during this trajectory, they insisted “over and over” that the multinational should establish its data center in Uruguay. The advocacy and persistence in securing the Google data center investment in Uruguay underscore the strategic importance of this project for the country’s digital future.

Confidentiality and Environmental Impact

The presidential candidate for the FA, Yamandú Orsi, recalled in a press conference that during the previous government term, Google approached them “without revealing what it was about and requesting confidentiality.” “I was fortunate, as the mayor [of Canelones], to have conversations with the former Minister of Industry, Paganini, at that time, to ensure that this never fell through,” he said, adding that what is essential is “looking forward and understanding that this will trigger other types of related investments that will greatly help us as a country.” The strategic discussions that led to the Google data center investment in Uruguay were marked by careful planning and confidentiality, ultimately benefiting the country’s long-term economic prospects.

Controversy Surrounding Environmental Impact

However, one of the controversial points regarding the installation of Google’s data center in Uruguay was that, in a 2020 report by Eleanor Applications SRL—a subsidiary of Google—on the environmental feasibility of the project’s location, the pages where the “water details,” “wastewater details,” and “energy details” were supposed to be appeared as “confidential.” Given the potential environmental impact of the Google data center investment in Uruguay, this confidentiality raised concerns.

For this reason, in 2022, Daniel Pena, a researcher from the Faculty of Social Sciences, submitted a public information request to the MA to learn about the volume of potable water required for the project’s operation. Finally, in 2023, it was revealed that the center could use up to 7,600,000 liters of potable water daily. The revelation brought attention to the environmental implications of the Google data center investment in Uruguay, sparking public debate.

When asked about this issue, Orsi said that “it’s not secrecy for the sake of secrecy so that no one finds out,” but rather that “when a deal isn’t finalized, it’s logical that the parties involved don’t expose themselves to competition or other factors that might work against them.” “In our case, they requested confidentiality because they were deciding whether to establish here or in Brazil.” The Google data center investment in Uruguay was thus subject to confidentiality, which Orsi justified as a standard business practice rather than a lack of transparency.

Balancing Confidentiality with Environmental Responsibility

“I believe that my country, through various governments and particularly under mine, the FA, has created the necessary conditions for land-use planning and environmental regulations so that one must go through certain stages before finalizing any venture,” he pointed out. Therefore, he considered that “confidentiality, in this case, is more about business plans, and, during discussions, they decided to switch from water cooling to air cooling.” “I have great confidence in the regulations we have and the technical expertise from universities trained on environmental issues; confidentiality doesn’t always equate to a lack of transparency,” he concluded. The approach taken with the Google data center investment in Uruguay reflects a balance between business confidentiality and environmental responsibility.

Conclusion: A Transformative Milestone for Uruguay

The Google data center investment in Uruguay represents a significant milestone in the country’s journey toward becoming a technological hub in Latin America. Despite the controversies surrounding environmental impact and confidentiality, the project underscores Uruguay’s commitment to sustainable development and its strategic vision to attract high-tech investments. The collaboration between Google and the Uruguayan government highlights the nation’s ability to create a conducive environment for global companies, fostering economic growth and innovation. As the data center becomes operational, it is poised to enhance regional connectivity and solidify Uruguay’s global position, marking a transformative moment in its economic and technological landscape.

Surge in Foreign Private Investment in Chile

According to an analysis conducted by InvestChile based on the survey by the Capital Goods Corporation (CBC) for the second quarter of this year, the $37.478 billion in foreign private investment in Chile represents a 24% increase compared to the previous quarter.

Foreign Projects Lead Private Investment

Foreign projects lead the private investment in Chile during the 2024-2028 period, as revealed by an analysis by InvestChile’s Strategy and Investment Climate division of the latest Capital Goods Corporation (CBC) report.

The review showed that foreign private investment accounted for 77% ($37.478 billion) of the CBC’s survey, while national private investment in Chile made up the remaining 23% ($11.193 billion). The situation was entirely different six years ago, as in 2018, only 45% of the projects included in the report came from foreign capital, compared to 55% from local capital.

Significant Growth in Energy and Mining Sectors

The amount associated with projects owned or involving foreign capital represents a 24% increase compared to the first quarter of this year ($30.118 billion). The most significant growth in private investment in Chile was seen in the energy and mining sectors, which account for more than 70% of the total difference between the two surveys.

Government and Industry Leaders React

Economy Minister Nicolás Grau stated, “This is good news because it shows that we can convert the international interest we see in presidential tours into investments, which translates into more jobs and economic growth.”

Meanwhile, Karla Flores, Director of InvestChile, noted that the figures align with the significant contribution foreign investment makes to Chile’s GDP, which is considerably higher than in other regional economies. We have recorded high flows of FDI in recent years.

Chile’s Institutional Strengths Attract Foreign Investment

“We are talking about companies setting up projects with a development horizon of many years or even decades and whose analysis incorporates elements where Chile has clear strengths: institutional solidity, robust fiscal responsibility and macroeconomic management, legal certainty, and opportunities in high-potential sectors. Although we have faced challenges like other economies worldwide, we are a country that can resolve them in an institutional and orderly manner, which is highly valued. The day-to-day and local debates often distract from the significant opportunities Chile offers for private investment in Chile, which foreign companies do see. Foreign investment is a powerful development tool for our country, and all indications are that it will continue to be so,” said Flores.

Number of Projects and Progress Status

In addition to the amount, another aspect worth highlighting is the number of projects related to foreign investment. In the second quarter of 2024, 221 such projects were recorded, explained by the inclusion of 22 new projects and 16 that moved from a ‘no schedule’ classification to a ‘with schedule’ status, where the existence of a precise disbursement timeline is determined. These 38 projects account for more than a $7.3 billion difference between the two reports.

Project Stages and Environmental Approvals

It is also essential to consider the stage of the projects involved, as their progress implies greater certainty of their materialization. 70% of the amounts considered are in the Construction and Detailed Engineering stages, providing greater certainty regarding their completion. These stages account for $27 billion in private investment in Chile.

In addition to the degree of progress, it is crucial to highlight the status of the projects mentioned: 56% corresponds to projects that already have environmental approval, totaling more than $20 billion. Meanwhile, projects under ecological review, meaning they are already under analysis, involve an amount close to $8 billion, representing 21% of the total. In summary, 76% of the projects are already in the environmental assessment system, either approved or under review.

Chile’s Continued Attractiveness as a Global Investment Destination

The growing dominance of foreign private investment in Chile underscores the country’s attractiveness as a global investment destination. With significant capital directed toward critical sectors such as energy and mining, Chile can benefit from sustained economic growth and job creation in the coming years. The robust institutional framework, fiscal responsibility, and legal certainty that characterize Chile’s economic environment continue to draw international interest. As the country moves forward, this influx of foreign capital will play a crucial role in shaping its future development, ensuring that Chile remains a competitive and dynamic player on the global stage.

Official Opening of the Dominican-Guatemalan Chamber of Commerce

During President Bernardo Arévalo’s recent visit to the Dominican Republic, the Guatemalan leader made a significant announcement on the occasion of President Luis Abinader’s inauguration. He revealed the official opening of the Dominican-Guatemalan Chamber of Commerce, a strategic move to promote stronger commercial relations between the two countries. This initiative marks a critical step in deepening economic ties and fostering greater collaboration, focusing on attracting new investments to Guatemala and the Dominican Republic.

Strengthening Bilateral Trade and Investment Opportunities

The official establishment of this chamber is not just a formality but a reflection of the commitment both nations have to enhance bilateral trade and investment opportunities. As globalization continues to shape economies worldwide, such initiatives are vital in ensuring that countries like Guatemala and the Dominican Republic can harness the full potential of international trade. The creation of the Dominican-Guatemalan Chamber of Commerce is expected to act as a catalyst for new business ventures, encouraging both nations to explore untapped markets and innovative business models, all while attracting new investments to Guatemala.

Engagement with the Guatemalan Diaspora

President Arévalo engaged with the Guatemalan diaspora residing in the Dominican Republic as part of his working trip. This vital and vibrant community plays a crucial role in maintaining the cultural and economic ties between the two nations. This meeting, also attended by prominent business leaders, served as a platform for discussing the new chamber’s opportunities. The president took the opportunity to inform attendees that this chamber would be officially established next week, signaling a new era of collaboration and mutual growth, with a strong emphasis on drawing new investments to Guatemala.

A Bridge for New Investments

“The inauguration of the chamber will strengthen bilateral trade, creating new opportunities for our businesses and attracting new investments,” stated President Arévalo. His words underscore the strategic importance of this initiative, which aligns with Guatemala’s broader economic goals of diversifying trade partnerships and attracting foreign direct investment. The chamber will serve as a bridge, facilitating easier market access and fostering an environment conducive to business expansion and innovation. This effort is expected to significantly contribute to drawing new investments to Guatemala, further bolstering its economy.

Founding Companies Leading the Way

According to information from the Presidential Secretariat for Social Communication (SCSP), the trade group comprises 11 founding companies. These companies, representing diverse industries, are at the forefront of this initiative. They bring a wealth of experience and resources, ensuring the chamber is well-positioned to make a meaningful impact. With this structure’s establishment and official launch, the inclusion of more businesses is not just anticipated but actively encouraged. The chamber aims to become a comprehensive network that supports businesses of all sizes, from startups to large corporations, in their efforts to expand into new markets and attract new investments to Guatemala.

Guatemala’s Appeal as an Investment Destination

“The increase in Guatemalan companies in the Dominican Republic reflects the country’s political stability and economic growth,” said President Arévalo. This statement highlights the broader economic context in which this initiative is taking place. Guatemala’s political stability and consistent economic growth make it an attractive destination for investors looking to enter new markets. President Arévalo’s invitation to Dominican businesses to consider Guatemala a valuable option for expanding their operations is a testament to the country’s growing reputation as a hub for innovation and commerce, further driving efforts to secure new investments in Guatemala.

Direct Flights: A Reflection of Strong Relations

Among the significant projects for this commercial union is the progress in establishing direct flights between the two nations. This initiative is more than just a logistical convenience; it reflects the strong relationship between Guatemala and the Dominican Republic. Direct flights will not only facilitate business travel and tourism but also enhance the efficiency of trade between the two countries. The improved connectivity is expected to increase the exchange of goods, services, and ideas, further solidifying the economic partnership between the two nations.

Current Trade Dynamics

According to the official account of the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and MSMEs, in 2023, trade between the Dominican Republic and Guatemala reached an impressive 253 million dollars. This figure is a clear indication of the robust economic ties that already exist between the two nations. Of this total, Dominican exports accounted for 36 million dollars, while imports from Guatemala amounted to 217 million dollars. These numbers highlight the significant trade imbalance between the two countries, allowing both nations to explore ways to diversify and balance their trade relationship.

Key Export and Import Products

The Ministry further notes that the main products exported from the Dominican Republic to Guatemala include therapeutic medications, beef, polyacetals, grits, corn semolina, and various food preparations. These products represent vital industries in the Dominican Republic, which have found a receptive market in Guatemala. On the other hand, critical imports from Guatemala include organic surface-active agents, oral hygiene preparations, and bakery and confectionery products. These imports indicate Guatemala’s strong manufacturing sector, which produces high-quality goods that meet the demands of Dominican consumers.

Future Prospects for Commerce

Establishing the Dominican-Guatemalan Chamber of Commerce is expected to enhance the trade of these existing products and open up new avenues for commerce. As both countries continue to grow and evolve economically, there is significant potential for introducing new products and services that cater to the changing needs of their populations. This chamber will play a crucial role in identifying and capitalizing on these opportunities, ensuring that both nations benefit from the shared prosperity that increased trade and investment can bring.

Conclusion: A New Era of Economic Integration

In conclusion, the inauguration of the Dominican-Guatemalan Chamber of Commerce represents a pivotal moment in the economic relationship between Guatemala and the Dominican Republic. It is a bold step towards greater economic integration and a testament to the commitment of both nations to fostering a dynamic and mutually beneficial partnership. As this initiative takes root and grows, it will undoubtedly create new opportunities for businesses and investors in both countries, paving the way for a more prosperous future by securing new investments in Guatemala and the Dominican Republic.