Latin American regional updates: Trade, housing, and development

Various regional developments are occurring across Latin America. In Chile, a high-level delegation from the U.S. Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), led by second-in-command Jeffrey Gerrish, is visiting to negotiate the 12.5% tariff imposed by Washington on Chilean products. Discussions aim to reduce or exempt specific exports such as salmon, wine, and frozen fruits.

In Paraguay, efforts to improve housing and business sectors are underway. A USD 200 million credit line from the Republic of China (Taiwan) is being processed to strengthen the Che Róga Porã housing program. Additionally, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, supported by Taiwan, has certified over 90 facilitators to support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (Mipymes).

Other notable activities include the formation of the Paraguay–United Arab Emirates Chamber of Commerce to boost bilateral trade, which grew by 53.8% in 2025. In Argentina, the Provincial Agrarian Council (CAP) and Perito Moreno have signed an agreement for strategic reforestation to mitigate environmental impacts and improve local access. In Guatemala, the National Mortgage Credit (CHN) has partnered with the Metropolitan Housing and Urban Development Company (EMVDU) to expand housing finance options for families.