Latin America

Over the past two decades, packaging trends in Mexico have undergone significant transformations, reflecting evolving consumer preferences and environmental concerns. There has been increasing adoption of plastic pouches, particularly in the food…

This briefing examines how the commodity market for beef is performing globally and in the largest countries in terms of supply and consumption. The report also provides data and analysis of beef price dynamics, and key meat consuming industries.

There was a clear shift in consumer preferences in Columbia in 2022, of which the main one was emphasising a delicate balance between affordability and quantity. This trend, driven by environmental consciousness and economic concerns amid rising…

In Brazil, 2022 saw significant developments in the packaging industry, driven by changing consumer behaviour and environmental concerns. With the post-pandemic shift towards on-the-go consumption, convenience and portability becoming key…

Although political instability and corruption continue to be themes in Peru, economic freedom is the third best in South America. Inflation is falling, but the economy is slowing and copper exports could be hindered further, whilst uncertainty in the…

The cannabis market in Mexico is estimated to be worth MXN33,650 million, with 95% of it being sold through the illicit market.

Global growth is set to slow in 2024 as a result of high cost pressures for businesses and consumers, especially high interest rates. Asia Pacific will continue to stand out as the main global growth region while advanced economies decelerate.…

Contrary to expectations, the national government did not advance hemp legislation for medical and industrial purposes in 2023. Instead, it opted to sidestep a potentially contentious debate, prioritising a comprehensive tax reformulation on its…

Argentina faced an uncertain macroeconomic scenario due to political disfunction and economic instability, with one of the highest inflation rates in the world, although according to Comisión Económica para América Latina y Caribe (CEPAL), gross…

Trinidad and Tobago is wealthy and stable; however, it is held back by a weak judiciary and high levels of corruption. Real GDP growth slowly recovered to pre pandemic pace, but oil and gas reserves will soon expire, hampering future growth. The…

St Vincent and the Grenadines enjoy political stability and low levels of corruption, but crime is rising. A small population that is hardly growing diminishes the appeal of the consumer market, whilst the populace is also ageing. Internet use is…

St Lucia’s stable and democratic island is challenged by endemic corruption and worsening labour freedoms. Economic growth recovered to pre-pandemic pace, but attempts at diversification need ramping up. Consumer expenditure is rising, but poverty…

St. Kitts and Nevis, a dual-island nation in the Caribbean, showcases political stability within a parliamentary democracy. Its economy hinges on tourism, agriculture, and a citizenship-by-investment program driving foreign investment. The country…

Support from France is crucial to the development of French Guiana, but while the relationship is generally cooperative, instances where tensions arise happen. The country has a strong space industry. Population growth will be strong, but it is…

Premium products suffered a major hit in 2020 when the pandemic first hit the region, while consumers in some countries have since been looking for the best value for money against a backdrop of high inflation. However, premium products have been…

After a pandemic-induced spike in retail demand for staple foods in Latin America in 2020, growth slowed in real value terms and declined in volume terms in 2021 in the face of a strong foodservice rebound. Post-2021, the volume performance has been…

The US Virgin Islands has a good regulatory environment, which fosters business development. However, a lack of representation in the US is creating frustration amongst islanders. The economy is heavily dependent on tourism and post-pandemic recovery…

Puerto Rico, a US territory, grapples with economic challenges such as high unemployment and debt amid debates about its political status. Culturally diverse, the island faces social issues like poverty and emigration. Yet, initiatives in technology,…

An authoritarian regime using violence has reduced peace in Nicaragua and caused political instability. Consequently, the economy has suffered a prolonged recession, which has been exacerbated by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. A major trade…

Although Martinique does not suffer from undue corruption, its political environment has been prone to secessionist tendencies. Given that the economy is highly dependent on tourism, its recovery from the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic remains slow.…