In recent years, economic opportunities have become the main force driving relationships in the Western Hemisphere. While political cooperation has stumbled, robust trade and financial engagement have been shown to be the best foundation for stronger partnerships between the countries of the region. But Latin American nations face enormous challenges in strengthening their international competitiveness, assuring their position in global finance and trade flows, and achieving equitable growth.
The Inter-American Dialogue seeks to encourage further economic integration and cooperation by building a better understanding of the major trends affecting trade, foreign investment, and economic development in the Americas.
While it’s too soon to say if the new administration will apply penalties to Brazil [for Amazon deforestation], there are a range of trade levers the US could pull...It can [also] say to Brazil that there are ways you can have economic development and conserve the forest at the same time, and we will support you.
[Brazil’s natural gas law] is expected to lead to more efficient use of existing infrastructure, lower natural prices for end-users and growth
in natural gas demand in Brazil.
