Recent estimates have revealed that in 2015, exports from Latin America and the Caribbean decreased at an annualized rate of 14%, the greatest contraction recorded since the trade collapse of 2009. This trend is affecting not only the region but the global economy as a whole. As a result, economists have begun to wonder if global trade has reached a peak that points to a change … [Read more...] about Why is export diversification so urgent?
Trade & Investment Agreements
Infrastructure, Trade, and Integration: the Case of the Pacific Alliance
A study published in 2013 by the IDB showed that high internal transport costs are a conditioning factor for exports in Latin America. They also encourage the concentration of economic activity and limit regional integration. These high internal transport costs are caused by limited investments in transportation infrastructure, the region’s challenging geography, and the type … [Read more...] about Infrastructure, Trade, and Integration: the Case of the Pacific Alliance
Five Highlights of China’s 13th Five-Year Plan that Matter to Latin America and the Caribbean
In March 2016, the Chinese government released its 13th Five-Year Plan at the end of the National People’s Congress Annual Meeting. The plan sets a blueprint for China’s policies and economic and social development goals for 2016–2020. With over 80 chapters, the document is full of details that are critical for informing LAC governments’ understanding of where China wants to be … [Read more...] about Five Highlights of China’s 13th Five-Year Plan that Matter to Latin America and the Caribbean
Bridging the Infrastructure Gap: Can infrastructure development improve trade competitiveness?
Over the last quarter century Latin America and the Caribbean have worked on opening their economies to international trade and investment. During that time, tariffs were cut in half, to less than 10 percent, and exports grew steadily, at an average of 10 percent a year. Yet despite this, Latin America has not been able to improve its position in international trade markets. … [Read more...] about Bridging the Infrastructure Gap: Can infrastructure development improve trade competitiveness?
Welcome to Beyond Borders, a new blog about Integration and Trade
Welcome to Beyond Borders, a new blog created by the Integration and Trade Sector of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). Beyond Borders is a space where policymakers, business leaders, students, thought leaders, and anyone interested in the issues of integration and trade can come together and engage with the IDB’s specialists and experts from around the world. When I … [Read more...] about Welcome to Beyond Borders, a new blog about Integration and Trade