The document begins with an overview of the global and regional economic outlook, highlighting gaps, trends, and opportunities emerging from current crises. It then examines Latin America and the Caribbean in comparison with other regions in terms of physical infrastructure, followed by an analysis of international trade relations and the region’s potential to attract investment and expand trade flows.

Another chapter explores how development banks in the region are responding through direct financing to boost exports. The publication concludes with key takeaways, summarizing the most relevant insights and recommendations.

The main theme of this document is «Sustainable Finance and the Contribution of Development Banks to Major Global and National Challenges» and aims to analyse and share knowledge on the pathways to progress towards a higher status of sustainable finance in the region. This was the theme of the 54th ALIDE Meeting held in Fortaleza, Brazil, from 15 to 17 May 2024.

This document presents the main findings of a survey conducted by ALIDE during its 55th General Assembly in 2025. In the survey, senior executives from 23 development finance institutions (DFIs) from Latin America, the Caribbean, and other regions shared their analysis of the effects of the current global economic situation. Faced with an international landscape marked by uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and various external vulnerabilities, the DFIs reported increased difficulties in accessing financing, adverse impacts on their clients, and a growing demand for regional cooperation. The study also highlights ALIDE’s key role as a platform for coordination, institutional strengthening, and the generation of technical knowledge to benefit the region’s development banking sector.