Slow-moving FTAs create concerns

Slow-moving FTAs create concerns The Association of American Chambers of Commerce in Latin America said in a new report that stalled free trade agreements between the United States and Latin America pose the biggest threat to economic growth in the region.
   “Seizing the opportunities of growth through expanded trade is a top priority in Latin America and the Caribbean today,” said John Murphy, executive vice president of AACCLA. “There is a clear recognition by our neighbors that opening markets not only makes economic sense, but political sense as well.'
   The survey, which used 500 respondents from 22 countries, showed that nearly one-third (31 percent) of respondents believe that political stalling of trade liberalization, plus the spread of populism and anti-Americanism pose the biggest threat to economic growth over the next four years.
   Respondents also said the two biggest obstacles to profitability are inadequate infrastructure (19 percent) and high taxes (17 percent).