WHY ARGENTINA, BRAZIL & CHILE?

ARGENTINA:

• U.S. exports to Argentina in 2006 were estimated at $4.7 billion.
• U.S. is Argentina's second largest trading partner after Brazil.
• Argentina’s recovery after the profound economic crisis of 2001/2002 has been robust and much greater than anticipated by leading international and domestic analysts.
• The Government of Argentina achieved its goal of keeping inflation within single digits in 2006, at 9.8 percent.
• Unemployment dropped to 9.6 percent in the fourth quarter of 2006.
• Industrial production has accumulated 64 percent growth since the first quarter of 2002 (equivalent to an annual rate of 11 percent). Argentine industrial and construction activity, which grew 7.8 percent and 22.2 percent respectively in 2005, continued to perform well in 2006.
• Industrial activity grew 8.3 percent in 2006, driven by the automotive sector, and construction activity increased by 17 percent.
• There are no restrictions on the release of foreign exchange, and advance payment for imports is allowed.

BRAZIL:

• Largest and most diversified industrial market in Latin America.
• Approximately 50% of South America’s GDP.
• Favorable exchange rate: US $ 1.00 = R$ 1,80.
• U.S. is Brazil’s largest single trade partner.
• Strategic location.
• Political and economic stability.
• In 2006, exports to Brazil increased almost 25 % to reach $19.23 billion.
• Significant U.S. exports to Brazil include a range of products and services such as computer accessories, engines for civilian aircraft, organic chemicals, pharmaceutical preparations and medical equipment.

CHILE:

• Excellent macroeconomic stability.
• Steady, positive growth.
• Stable democratic government.
• Prudent fiscal policies.
• Rule of law.
• Great level of internationalization.
• Free Trade Agreements with 50+ countries.
• Exceptional access to Latin American markets.
• A dynamic, transparent, and low-risk business climate.
• Very low levels of corruption.
• World-class telecom infrastructure.
• Well trained working class.

• Agricultural Machinery
• Airport and Ground Support Equip.
• Electrical Power Systems
• Financial Services
• Food Processing and Packaging Equip.
• High Tech Machinery Tools and Equip.
• Information Technology
• Medical and Clinical Instrumentation and Equip.
• Mining Machinery and Equipment

• Oil and Gas Machinery and Services
• Pharmaceutical Products and Equip.
• Plastics Production Machinery
• Pollution and Environmental Control
• Renewable Energy
• Safety and Security Equipment
• Testing and Control Instruments
• Travel and Tourism Services