Model cities in Honduras

A visionary plan to let investors create privately-run towns is expected to go to Congress in Tegucigalpa within the next few weeks.

Under the concept, the Honduran government would grant long-term leases of unpopulated State-owned land to private interests, who would build and operate infrastructure, along with commercial and residential facilities, and who would be responsible for local services.

The "urban island" plan would seek to attract investment by foreign companies, who could benefit from Honduras' strategic advantages, including competitive wage rates and proximity to the United States market. Currently, Honduras is an important apparel exporter.

At the same time, private operation of urban services may increase efficiency, making local companies more competitive. This article in the Wall Street Journal explains the concept in greater detail.

Opportunities

• Real estate developers
• Urban planners
• Contractors
• Industrial operators
• Logistics companies