US – Latin America Energy Investment under the Trump Administration

On March 7th, the Inter-American Dialogue organized an expert roundtable to gather input for a forthcoming report on US investment in Latin American energy. The meeting convened a diverse group of experts from the private sector, US government agencies including the Department of Energy and Department of State, Congress and Latin American government representatives. The meeting was made possible by support from CAF-Development Bank of Latin America.

8:45 AM – 9:00 AM Registration & Coffee

9:00 AM – 9:15 AM

 

Opening Remarks & Introductions

Lisa Viscidi, Inter-American Dialogue

9:15 AM – 9:50 AM

Discussion: Trade

 

President Trump has said he intends to bring jobs and investment back to the United States and may impose import tariffs on countries including Mexico and China. How would these policies affect energy-related investment in Latin America and the Caribbean? Which aspects of trade policy would be most important to the energy business? To what extent does US government financing impact trade and investment with the region? Would any changes in US trade policies be beneficial to energy investment in Latin America?

9:50 AM – 10:25 AM

Discussion: Regulatory Environment

 

President Trump has vowed to reduce the regulatory burden on the energy sector in order to boost US oil and gas production and revive the coal industry. What is the likelihood that the administration will succeed in reducing regulations and increasing energy production in the United States? Will these policies likely divert investment from Latin American countries with less competitive regulatory environments? Does the trend toward more investment-friendly governments in Latin America provide increased opportunities for US investment?

10:25 AM – 10:50 AM

Discussion: Energy Diplomacy

 

President Trump has taken a more US-centric approach to foreign policy with a focus on American interests. To what extent does US investment in energy in Latin America motivate US foreign policy? To what extent does US investment in Latin America depend on strong political ties between the U.S. and Latin American countries? Which US government policies and initiatives have been successful in promoting investment in Latin American energy? Is the US at risk of losing influence in the region vis-à-vis China?

10:50 AM - 11:00 AM

Closing Remarks 

Co-hosted with

 

Energy & Resources Committee


Suggested Content