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.

Dec 19, 2013

As inward FDI in Latin America and the Caribbean reached an all time high in 2011 with total inflows of $153 billion in 2011, China continues to increase its investments in the region. Fernando Menéndez explains that rather than focusing on increased competition, the US and China should collaborate so both nations may benefit from the region’s booming economies.

Oct 09, 2013

How will Nicolás Maduro’s leadership impact China’s evolving relationship with Venezuela? Fernando Menéndez warns that the state of Venezuela’s economy and political stability is in jeopardy, putting China’s strong ties and investments in the country at risk.