Central American and Dominican industrial integration

Efforts to strengthen economic integration and industrial competitiveness in Central America and the Dominican Republic have progressed through high level diplomatic and business initiatives.

In mid October 2026, Honduras’ National Investment Council conducted a strategic mission to Panama and Barbados to promote the country as a business destination. Led by Minister Epaminondas Marinakys, the delegation sought to propose an alliance between the Caribbean Association of Investment Promotion Agencies and the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies to create a unified global investment ecosystem.

Following these efforts, the Federation of Chambers and Industrial Associations of Central America and the Dominican Republic (FECAICA) hosted the 2026 Regional Industry Congress in San Salvador on October 29. Under the theme “Regional Integration and Business Leadership,” the congress utilized panels with industry executives to address sector challenges and promote the region as a competitive platform for international business and investment.

The event focused on four strategic pillars: potential, strategy, execution, and inspiration. Key speakers included executives from PepsiCo Alimentos, Grupo Progreso, and Grupo SID. Discussions addressed how shifts in international supply chains present opportunities for regional production, infrastructure development, and the creation of integrated supplier chains. Participants included industrial leaders from El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Costa Rica, and the Dominican Republic.

During the congress, Ligia Bonetti, executive president of Grupo SID, proposed a ten year joint industrial agenda for the region. She advocated for a coordinated strategy involving governments, the private sector, and academia to enhance competitiveness through technology, data, and talent development.