While the outlook for markets remains uncertain, experts look to Latin America’s economic growth in recent years as a factor in how the region may weather a global economic storm.
While illegal immigration draws attention in U.S. public debate, smuggling of arms into Mexico fails to gain the same notice. As the related death toll rises in Mexico, new
Brazilian President Inacio Lula da Silva made his first trip to Cuba since the island’s ailing leader Fidel Castro initiated a transition of power to his brother Raul. Lula’s visit brought an energy agreement and pledges of a large aid package.
Bolivia predicts high foreign investment in its hydrocarbons industry, but won't meet 2008 export demands. Meanwhile, government officials and opposition leaders met this week to bridge a divide that led four provinces to demand autonomy.
On January 8, President Michele Bachelet reshuffled her cabinet for the third time during her tenure in office. The latest change draws experienced appointees into the fold and seeks to heal rifts in the governing coalition.
Caracas began the year by knocking zeros off its currency, but experts say the move won’t keep inflation in check. A cabinet shuffle and the currency change came a month after voters rejected an overhaul of the constitution.
January 1 marked an end to all tariffs on agricultural goods—including corn and sugar—traded between the U.S. and Mexico. But NAFTA could hit roadblocks in 2008: Mexican truckers face barriers to accessing U.S. roads and presidential campaigns have taken protectionist tones.