Latin America and the Caribbean countries (LAC) have liberalized trade extensively since the early 1980s. Tariffs have been reduced by about two-thirds. Protectionist policies such as licensing requirements, prohibitions, quotas, tariff quotas and administered pricing, have been scrapped.

New and more open markets and an environment in which productivity, efficiency and competitiveness are primary factors for success have given rise to a need among entrepreneurs in Latin America - especially those related to Small and Medium Enterprises in industry and agriculture - to redefine themselves and seek out strategies for staying competitive. The negotiating and initiation phases of trade agreements present a critical window of opportunity for policy specialists, business owners, and other stakeholders to work together to identify how small and medium enterprises can prepare themselves and benefit from these new trade agreements.

To support this process, the GDLN is bringing together associations and chambers of commerce, policy makers, academics, and entrepreneurs to participate in open dialogue and capacity building on how small and medium enterprises can increase their competitiveness in preparation for the new trade agreements. In particular, GDLN focus on:

• optimizing resources;
• promoting strategic alliances;
• sharing knowledge; and
• consolidating strengths, technologies and know-how across the region.

For further information on activities in this sector, please contact the regional GDLN team.