ABL delegates from across the world gathered again for the General Assembly Meeting in Mexico, November 2013. The agenda included a series of presentations and panel discussions that gave delegates a valuable insight into Mexico’s Business Climate and Investment Opportunities in Latin America.

Host of the conference, Alberto Larios, presented the Mexican market and gave an update on the recent law amendments impacting the country’s economy. Speakers from various sectors attended the debates and explained about the current business environment in Mexico and issues to be considered by foreign entrepreneurs investing in Mexico. Pablo Limón Mestre described the recent changes in Mexican labour law, taxes to be paid by foreign investors, the Mexican banking system and the availability of borrowing in Mexico.  Hugo Perezcano addressed the issue of corruption and explained about Investor Cases and the possible impact of the TAFTA negotiations on the Mexican economy. Alberto Larios gave a valuable insight into the Mexican court system, Ejido land, interest rates on loans to foreigners, the strong unions and some practical concerns with regard to security.

Another most interesting panel debate dealt with the challenges and opportunities for investment in Latin America. Sebastián Forino, ABL member for Buenos Aires, explained about why to invest in Argentina, restrictions on buying real estate, capital gains tax and the role of lawyers in doing business in Argentina. Sergio Viveros, ABL member for Bogota, demonstrated the easiness of doing business in Colombia and explained about restrictions on foreign ownership, immigration regulations and the role of lawyers in doing business. Luis Azevedo, ABL member for São Paulo, talked about the investment climate in Brazil, obtaining visa and taxes to be paid on profits made in Brazil. ABL member for Fortaleza, Laerte de Castro Alves, gave an update on what his firm is doing in regard with business in Brazil. He informed about the unions in Brazil and the role of lawyers in doing business there.

The next ABL conference will take place in Moscow, May 2014. More information will be available soon on our website.