The organisation says developments in renewable energy, artificial intelligence, food production and international trade are creating new opportunities for investment, productivity and employment.
Presenting the Latin American Economic Outlook 2026 report, ECLAC Executive Secretary José Manuel Salazar-Xirinachs said the region possesses significant natural and economic resources that could support future development.
These include renewable energy, critical minerals, agricultural production and biodiversity.
However, he warned that possessing these resources alone would not guarantee economic progress.
ECLAC identified several challenges facing the region, including slow economic growth, inequality and limited institutional capacity.
The organisation is encouraging governments to strengthen regional trade, diversify their economies and invest in technology and infrastructure.
The report also highlighted the potential economic benefits of artificial intelligence, estimating that the technology could generate approximately US$565 billion in additional production across Latin America between 2025 and 2030.
ECLAC stressed that Caribbean and Latin American countries must work more closely together to increase their competitiveness and attract investment.
The organisation believes stronger cooperation could help the region move beyond its existing economic challenges and establish a more influential position in the changing global economy.
