The region in the global minerals and metals trade

The Latin America region is among the world’s most richly endowed with minerals and metals. As a result, this sector has historically accounted for a large share of the export baskets of a number of the region’s countries, particularly in South America. Notwithstanding its undeniable contribution to currency earnings and fiscal revenues, among other benefits, this type of specialization poses a variety of public policy challenges. They include the need to mitigate countries’ vulnerability to price fluctuations, add value to the sector’s products, enhance linkages with local suppliers of goods and services and reduce the negative socio-environmental impacts generally associated with extractive activities.

Sustainable Development Goals:

Reduced Inequalities

Decent Work and Economic Growth

Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure