Press Release

Commerce Secretary Gutierrez Announces Inaugural Americas Competitiveness Forum

Ministers from 33 Western Hemisphere Nations to Discuss Free Enterprise and Investment in Atlanta

WASHINGTON—U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez today announced the first Americas Competitiveness Forum will be held June 11-13, 2007, in Atlanta. High-level government officials from each of the hemisphere's 33 countries with democratically elected governments are invited to the forum to discuss how best to enhance the region's ability to compete more successfully in the global marketplace.

"The Americas Competitiveness Forum is an excellent opportunity to work on policies and strategies that attract investment and promote free enterprise throughout the region at a time when we are facing ever-growing competition from Asia and elsewhere," said Gutierrez.

Recently in Miami, Gutierrez highlighted the economic progress in Latin America stating that in 2004, foreign direct investment in Latin America was over $54 billion--a 46 percent increase over 2003. The International Monetary Fund reports that Latin American economies grew on average, a robust 4.3 percent in 2005, fueled by demand for commodities.

Free trade agreements, such as the recently implemented Central American-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement, are considered important tools in expanding prosperity and regional competitiveness.

"What successful leaders know is that business investment brings a multitude of benefits, including jobs and more revenue for health and education, said Gutierrez."

Topics for the forum include: leveraging public-private partnerships to foster innovation; workforce development and education; and business facilitation/supply chain management. Additionally, private-sector representatives from the region, non-governmental organizations, and universities will be invited to participate.

Atlanta was chosen as the location for the Forum for its commitment to competitiveness and its success in leveraging public-private partnerships to foster innovation and business development.

The Forum is a direct result of President Bush's recommendation to meet with leaders from each of the hemisphere's 33 countries to discuss improving the region's competitiveness. President Bush first made the recommendation following the Summit of the Americas in November 2005 held in Mar del Plata, Argentina.