Canning House | Latin American Economy Business report

During the decade of the commodity boom (roughly the ten years to 2012) the governments of Argentina and Brazil (the two dominant members of the Mercosur trade bloc, whose other members are Paraguay and Uruguay [and Venezuela – suspended since 2016]) neglected the customs union and bickered between themselves over protective tariffs. When there was a political swing to the centre-right in Argentina (late 2015) and Brazil (mid 2016) there was a lot of talk of reviving Mercosur and making a new commitment to open trade and regional integration. But has anything really happened?

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Despite low unrest, insurgency risks, growing political violence is a threat in Brazil

Though concerns from parts of Brazilian society about potential unrest taking place during the country's 7th September Independence Day celebrations did not materialise, the run-up to the 2nd October presidential elections have not been devoid of political violence, with security risks likely to continue into the coming years - write Mário Braga and Rodrigo Russo.

Democracy in Action - Chile chooses its future

Last week saw the anniversary of the birth of Bernardo O’Higgins. A revolutionary leader, he led the forces to secure independence from Spain, establishing the new Republic of Chile, creating a working governmental organisation and establishing peace and order, based on the principles of freedom and democracy. Principles which resonate today and which are at the heart of what is happening now in Chile - writes Fiona Clouder.

52-05-2018: Latin American Economy Business report

More recent briefings & intelligence

Despite low unrest, insurgency risks, growing political violence is a threat in Brazil

Democracy in Action - Chile chooses its future

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