Latin America
The Repsol settlement – a path forward for Argentina?
Argentina has finally negotiated an end to one of Latin America’s most turbulent investment conflicts, opening the door to further development of the country’s newly-discovered energy resources. But there are
Pacific Trade Alliance committed to free market development
In February, the leaders of the Pacific Alliance met in Cartagena, Colombia to discuss tariff reductions. This economic integration project demonstrates a long term credible commitment to sustain liberalized markets
Growing protests in Venezuela threaten Maduro’s rule
Massive anti-government protests have erupted across Venezuela in what President Nicolas Maduro has called an “evolving coup.” Maduro’s comment might become a self-fulfilling prophecy if protesters and the political opposition continue
Panama Canal deadlock rattles shipping industry
The Panama Canal expansion is a project of huge dimensions, and the shipping industry tries to tailor ships to its prospective needs. The project recently came to a halt rattling
ICJ grants Peru more ocean, maintains Chilean fishing grounds in ruling
On January 27th 2014, the International Court of Justice compromised in determining the maritime boundary between Peru and Chile, granting rights to key fishing stocks. Ruling on a case filed
Bank reforms to increase cost of doing business in Ecuador
The cost of doing business in Ecuador is already high for extractive sectors. Investments in Ecuador’s financial services sector may face added obstacles following recently proposed regulatory measures. Ecuador is
Peru’s informal mining sector threatens economic growth
Peru faces the critical challenge of regulating the informal mining sector. Leaning on the extractive industries for private investment, the rise of an extrajudicial gold rush could jeopardize economic progress. Much
Brazil embraces immigration reform
Brazil has announced plans for a streamlined work visa application for skilled foreign workers, which should help fill its current skilled labor shortage. 2013 brought plenty of difficulties for Brazil.
Cuba’s reforms need more power to attract investment
Cuba has undergone reforms during Raul Castro’s presidency, but they continue to progress slowly and lack substance. Still, the atmosphere is right for Cuba to make some improvements to its
Increased guerrilla activity in Paraguay threatens FDI
The Paraguayan People’s Army, a burgeoning terrorist organization, is attacking Paraguayan agribusiness and the country’s rural police. In an economy that depends heavily on ranching and agriculture, this particular group
