Infrastructure, Finance, and Economic Transition Topics of Discussion at Latin American Business Forum in Houston

A cross-section of business, finance, and academic leaders met in Houston today to explore new opportunities emerging for business between Latin America and the United States, and what role the City of Houston and Texas can play in facilitating the next steps in building relations between the two regions. 

Philip Rowley, executive director of Berkeley Research Group, says the 2017 Latin American Business Forum is one way global trade can flourish and benefit communities here and abroad. “Increased economic activity is something that everyone wants, no matter their party, or politics – more jobs, more trade, more investment, these are the things we are working towards today.” 

“Even a basic discussion covers a huge range of topics from banking, to trans-national law, and government cooperation. That is why we have cast such a wide net and are pleased to welcome some the foremost authorities on these very issues and how they relate to each other,” Rowley said. 

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, Houston Community College Chancellor Dr. Cesar Maldonado, and Port of Houston Commissioner Theldon Branch were among the distinguished speakers at today’s forum. Panel discussions on infrastructure and technology developments in Latin America included input from the Honorable Juan Sosa, consul general for the Government of Panama in Houston, and Richard Ryan, director at the US Department of Commerce, among others.