KEY DATES

Consultancy tenders close: late November 2000

Expected date of publication: May-June 2001

OVERVIEW

Most of the countries in Latin America have undertaken a dramatic change in
policy over the last 15 years. After poor economic performances across the
region and the debt crisis of the early 1980s, it became accepted that the
model of state intervention and import substitution was not successful. Thus,
sweeping political and economic reforms have occurred. These reforms have
involved reducing trade barriers, more liberal foreign investment laws, more
effective financial system regulation, reductions in tax distortions on
decision making and a reduced role for the government in economic activity.
The more outward-looking focus also is evidenced by most Latin American
countries adopting the outcomes of the Uruguay Round of GATT negotiations and
being active participants in the World Trade Organisation (WTO). In addition,
most Latin American countries have entered preferential trading arrangements
and are committed to negotiating a Free Trade Area of the Americas by 2005.
Some Latin American countries are emphasising expanded political and economic
links with Asia.

This study is intended to highlight the opportunities for Australian
businesses in the major Latin American markets of Brazil, Mexico, Argentina
and Chile. It includes analysis of economic developments in the four economies
(including policy responses to the recent crises), views on their medium to
long term growth potential and economic reforms undertaken over the last
decade. The report will also cover Australia's business relationship with the
economies (highlighting the impact of the regional preferential trading
arrangements), the business environment in each economy and detailed analysis
of prospects in the key sectors of mining and infrastructure. Conclusions will
be drawn on the strategic implications for Australian business.

Report Outline

Executive Summary

Section One - Overview

1. Latin America - Historical and Economic Overview, Prospects and Risks

Section Two - Economic Developments in Brazil, Mexico, Argentina and Chile

2. Brazil

3. Mexico

4. Argentina

5. Chile

Section Three - Australia-Latin America Business Prospects

6. Australia's Business Relationship with Brazil, Mexico, Argentina and
Chile

7. Business Environment in Brazil, Mexico, Argentina and Chile

Section Four - Major Trade and Investment Policy Directions

8. Trade Performance and Prospects of Brazil, Mexico, Argentina and Chile

9. Foreign Investment Opportunities in Brazil, Mexico, Argentina and Chile

Section Five - Major Sectoral Policy Developments

10. Mining

11. Infrastructure

Section Six - Conclusions

12. Conclusions/Implications


The EAAU will be letting tenders for the writing of a number of the chapters
outlined above. More details will be made available in November when the
formal tender process begins, but any initial tender interest can be expressed
to the contact officer below.

Key dates

• consultancy tenders open in mid-November 2000; closing in late November
  2000
• expected date of publication: May-June 2001

Officer contact details

Ms Joanne Frederiksen

Tel +61 2 6261 2316
joanne.frederiksen@dfat.gov.au