In The News

Washington and the Chavez Question

Patrick Esteruelas May 25, 2005
Many fear that Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez may successfully create a substantial leftist, anti-American political bloc in South America. But as the Financial Times notes, Chavez's strategies – combining populist rhetoric, left-leaning militarism, and natural resource manipulation – may not be quite so successful. Venezuela's oil has been a key tool in shaping regional politics:...

Of Flying Geese and Sitting Ducks: Brazil Stares, East Asia Takes Off…

Marcos Jank May 17, 2005
While East Asian countries steadily continue their economic development, Latin American nations still trail in achieving sustainable growth. The difference, according to this InfoBrazil commentary, can be attributed to the diverging economic policies of the two regions. Since the 1980s, East Asia has sought to attain global competitiveness by prioritizing exports, outsourcing labor-intensive...

And Now, the News in Latin America's View

Juan Forero May 16, 2005
Supporters of the proposed Latin America Telesur tout it as an "antihegemonic network" – a direct reference to perceived US-based media dominance. Largely supported by Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez, the network is slated to cover regional news from a uniquely Latin American perspective. Many critics, however, believe Chávez's intentions to be less about independent journalism...

China Hits Out at New US Textile Quota

Richard McGregor May 16, 2005
The expiration of textile quotas on January 1, 2005, saw a slight shift in global garment trade. Though not as drastic a change as many had feared – some of the smaller producers have managed to keep pace with the quota-free market – China's exports increased significantly. Responding to the spike in Chinese exports, the European Union and United States both launched separate...

Onshore Outsourcing: Made in America

Paul McDougall May 11, 2005
In the United States, mere mention of the term "outsourcing" will likely ruffle protectionist feathers. For companies who prefer to keep their operations within US borders, there are other options – besides relying on overseas labor – for trimming expenses. More businesses have begun to "insource," or outsource IT work to smaller cities within the 50 states. Though hourly...

Argentina or the "Principles"?

Ernesto Zedillo May 10, 2005
Financial instability in emerging market countries has been a major concern for the international financial system. Argentina's debt crisis, during which the country's entire financial sector collapsed, triggered serious discussions on how to improve the world's response mechanisms in times of crises. After several years of negotiation and consultation, an association of private...

Virtual Secretary Puts New Face on Pakistan

Mitra Kalita May 10, 2005
While offshore call centers have become more commonplace, one US company has pushed this booming business to a new level: The Resource Group employs a "virtual receptionist." Though stationed in Pakistan, she receives phone calls, welcomes guests (via front desk flat screen), and places lunch orders for the Washington office. Proud company managers boast, "We're able to...