Buy Central American

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Importers should look again at products and services from Central American exporters, who are getting better at satisfying global demand. In the first quarter of 2010, the region`s exports grew by $2 billion, compared to the same period a year earlier.

 

Total exports were $5,9 billions, the highest figure in a decade. As late as 10 years ago, close to half of the region's output went to the United States. Since then, however, the region has diversified impressively.

 

The United States is still the most important destination for the region's exports. However, Central America has been able significantly to increase its sales to Europe and the Caribbean, as well as internally in the region. Agricultural exports remain the most important sector, including non traditional products, such as processed foods.

 

Production of apparel and light-manufacturing goods, mainly from Central American free trade zones, has also increased recently. Costa Rica, El Salvador and Guatemala had year-over-year growth in exports for the first quarter ranging from 15% to 18%. Nicaragua, the region`s smallest exportrer, showed growth of 35%.