In brief
At the World Investment Forum in Doha, UNCTAD Director Luz Maria de la Mora told Bloomberg that Latin America can benefit from both U.S. and Chinese markets. She called for diversification, identifying competitive advantages, and increasing the region’s role in global supply chains. The forum also approved 20 investment actions to support Latin American trade.
On Nov. 3, 2026, at the World Investment Forum in Doha, Qatar, UNCTAD official Luz Maria de la Mora told Bloomberg that Latin America can benefit from both the United States and China rather than choosing between the two.
De la Mora, the director of UNCTAD’s division on international trade and commodities, said both economies are key export destinations and sources of input for Latin American producers.
She highlighted that China is the leading trading partner for several South American countries, while the United States holds that position for Mexico and several Central American and Caribbean economies.
De la Mora urged Latin American states to diversify trade and investment relationships, identify their competitive advantages, and strengthen participation in global supply chains. She described a practical, market‑driven approach that would let countries tap the opportunities offered by both markets and production networks.
By spreading trade across more partners, Latin America could reduce its exposure to tensions between the U.S. and China, ensuring more stable export routes and access to technology and inputs.
The Doha forum, which brought together investment leaders, agreed on 20 specific investment actions aimed at supporting trade and investment flows for the region.