Latin America and the Caribbean are at a turning point. In an increasingly interconnected and competitive world, the region faces urgent challenges: slowed economic growth, persistent inequality, environmental crises, and the need for greater technological innovation. In this context, the Latin America and the Caribbean Economic Forum 2025 emerges as a key space for dialogue and the development of joint solutions.
Held in Panama City, this event brings together government leaders, businesspeople, academics, and representatives from international organizations with a single goal: to create strategic alliances to drive the region's sustainable development.
What is the Latin America and the Caribbean Economic Forum 2025?
This forum is a high-level platform aimed at generating discussions about the economic future of Latin America and the Caribbean. Organized by CAF – Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean, in partnership with the PRISA Group and World in Progress (WIP), the event has become a must-attend for those looking to transform the region through innovative and sustainable strategies.
Since its creation, the forum has served as a platform to discuss key topics such as investment in infrastructure, digitalization, economic integration, and the transition to clean energy. The 2025 edition has a special focus on the creation of public-private partnerships and technological innovation as drivers of sustainable growth.
Panama: Strategic Hub for Regional Growth
Panama is not only the host of the event, but also an example of development in Latin America. Its privileged geographic location, advanced infrastructure, and financial stability make it a strategic hub for global trade and foreign investment.
The country has consolidated its position as a top-tier logistics and financial hub, with the Panama Canal at the heart of international trade and a growing services industry driving the regional economy. By choosing Panama as the venue for the forum, the organizers highlight its role in integrating and connecting Latin America with the rest of the world.
The Economic Challenges of Latin America and the Caribbean in 2025
Despite its natural and cultural wealth, Latin America and the Caribbean face significant obstacles that limit their economic and social growth. Some of the most important challenges to be addressed at the forum include:
📉 Stagnant Economic Growth
Regional GDP growth has been low in recent years, with an annual average around 1.6%. The lack of investments, political instability, and high dependence on commodities have hindered sustainable development.
⚖ Inequality and Poverty
Despite progress, the region remains one of the most unequal in the world. Labor informality, limited access to quality education, and gender gaps are barriers to progress.
🌎 Environmental Challenges and Climate Change
The climate crisis severely affects Latin America and the Caribbean, a region rich in biodiversity but vulnerable to natural disasters. The forum will discuss how to boost the circular economy, reduce deforestation, and encourage investment in renewable energy.
🚀 Digitalización y Acceso a Tecnología
La transformación digital es clave para el desarrollo, pero muchas zonas aún carecen de infraestructura adecuada. La conectividad y la inclusión financiera a través de tecnología serán ejes centrales del debate.
The Keys to the Forum: Partnerships for Sustainable Development
To overcome these challenges, the Latin America and the Caribbean Economic Forum 2025 will place special emphasis on cooperation and the creation of new opportunities. Some of the most relevant areas to be discussed include:
💼 The Role of the Private Sector and Foreign Investment
Private investment is a key driver of growth. The forum is expected to serve as a space to attract foreign capital, strengthen local entrepreneurship, and promote sustainable business models.
🔬 Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Las startups y la tecnología pueden cambiar la economía de la región. La inversión en educación STEM (ciencia, tecnología, ingeniería y matemáticas), inteligencia artificial y automatización será fundamental para la competitividad global.
🌱 Energy Transition and Circular Economy
Latin America is one of the regions with the highest potential for renewable energy. 62% of the electricity generated comes from clean sources, but the challenge is to increase efficiency and expand the adoption of green technologies.
✈ Regional Integration and International Cooperation
Intra-regional trade remains low compared to other parts of the world. Improving infrastructure, integrating markets, and modernizing trade agreements will be part of the discussion.
Leaders and Experts Who Make a Difference
This forum will feature key figures from the political, business, and academic worlds. Notable speakers include:
- José Raúl Mulino, President of Panama
- Santiago Peña, President of Paraguay
- Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of UNCTAD
- Rachel Adams, Expert in Artificial Intelligence Governance
- Jeremy Rifkin, Economist and Specialist in Sustainable Economy
These and other leaders will share their vision on how Latin America and the Caribbean can accelerate their growth in a constantly changing world.
Impact and Expectations: What Can Change for the Region?
The agreements and commitments that arise from the forum could define the region's economic path in the coming years. Key expectations include:
✅ Greater access to financing for infrastructure and technology projects.
✅ Concrete initiatives to reduce the carbon footprint and promote the circular economy.
✅ New policies to strengthen foreign investment and intra-regional trade.
✅ Greater digitization of public and private services to improve competitiveness.
The challenge is not just to discuss, but to translate ideas into concrete actions that benefit society as a whole.
Conclusion
The Latin America and the Caribbean Economic Forum 2025 is more than an event: it is an opportunity to change the region's course. The decisions made in Panama could mark a turning point in the integration, growth, and sustainability of Latin America and the Caribbean.
Strategic partnerships, investment in innovation, and international cooperation will be key for the region to overcome its challenges and capitalize on its enormous potential. Now is the time to act. 🌎💡
