Jan 21, 2015

Obama’s announcement to restore diplomatic relations with Cuba is not an absolute opening of trade, which is still privileged to U.S. agro-export, telecommunication, and financial industries. China on the other hand is Cuba’s second largest importer, with investments in petroleum, tourism, nickel, and infrastructure – all of which could prove beneficial once American firms and consumers are allowed to enter the Cuban economy.

Jan 08, 2015

The steep drop in global oil prices has created ripple effects in the economies of Latin America, largely due to oil-for-loan schemes made with China. Fernando Menédez argues that even if China were to forgive their mounting debts, or more likely, when they default, these countries will still be in worse shape resulting from their failed economic policies.

Oct 06, 2014

As Chinese investments in Ecuador continue to increase, Fernando Menéndez examines Ecuador’s dependence on oil exports to China and the impact Chinese influence is having on Ecuador and other ALBA countries.

Aug 08, 2014

As the BRICS prepare to launch the New Development Bank, Fernando Menéndez explores the political and economic factors motivating its creation and what it might imply for Latin America.

Jul 14, 2014

While it is rumored that Chinese President Xi Jinping requested the BRICS Summit in Brazil be held in July so he could attend the World Cup, Fernando Menéndez argues that China’s president should have more on his mind than a football game and highlights the significance of the upcoming BRICS Summit.

Jun 16, 2014

Mexico has enormous economic potential and could play a significant role in labor-intensive production, but the cost of doing business there remains high. In breaking with the past, Mexico has opened up its economy. However, a large informal sector, low levels of commercial lending, and a lack of competition offset the benefits of Mexico’s low-cost labor.

May 16, 2014

Is Cuba actually following the “China model” of economic reform and development? While Cuba indeed has been influenced by China’s rapid economic growth, Fernando Menéndez argues that Cuba’s moves are a retreat by the state from certain economic activities, it is still far from the Chinese model.

Apr 17, 2014

Many Latin American countries have experienced record levels of growth in the last decade due to high prices of commodities, however, few planned for the future. As China slows and US desire for petroleum lessens, the economies of many Latin American countries that have failed to diversify their economies away from a single commodity are slowing drastically.

Feb 22, 2014

Following the Community of Latin American and Carribean States (CELAC) summit held in Havana, Cuba at the end of January, Fernando Menéndez analyzes two potential paths for Latin America’s development and explores China’s future role in the region.

Jan 25, 2014

Is China engaging in a modern day version of dollar diplomacy? As Fernando Menéndez explains, China’s use of political and economic influence mirrors the previous intervention of the United States in Central America and the Caribbean.