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Over the last four decades, the provision of economic infrastructure in Latin America and the Caribbean has been marked by significant contrasts, reflecting the region's high political, economic, and social volatility. Despite notable progress, the region still faces substantial challenges compared to other regions and its domestic requirements. Limited information on quantitative and qualitative infrastructure indicators and investment hampers comprehensive analysis.

Research focused on the region highlights the critical role of infrastructure in promoting economic growth, reducing inequality, and alleviating poverty. Studies demonstrate that inadequate infrastructure investment has significantly hindered the region's economic development. Furthermore, there is a growing need to broaden the definition of infrastructure and improve its measurement to better reflect its economic impact.

To achieve long-term growth and development, the region must prioritize the adequate provision and access of infrastructure and its associated services in terms of quantity and quality within a framework of adequate and stable regulations. This approach aligns with the strategies of currently advanced economies and is essential for addressing the region's economic and social challenges.

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This study analyzes the impact of external crises on maritime container logistics dynamics over the past two decades. Using ARIMAX models applied to monthly container This study reevaluates the traditional concept of the shipping cycle, integrating classical and growth cycle perspectives to better reflect the complexities of modern maritime markets. Analyzing monthly data from 2000 to 2023 on dry bulk and container freight rates, the research reveals significant deviations from the conventional four-stage model, driven by external shocks, technological advances, and changing trade patterns. Findings show that dry bulk cycles are longer and more volatile than container cycles, with strong links to commodity prices. The results suggest that supply chain disruptions, regulatory shifts, and market concentration are reshaping cycle dynamics, highlighting the need for stakeholders to adapt strategies and mitigate volatility in an increasingly complex shipping environment. 

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This study analyzes the impact of external crises on maritime container logistics dynamics over the past two decades. Using ARIMAX models applied to monthly container movement data (2006-2024), the research examines how different types of crises - economic, health, geopolitical, technological, climatic, and armed conflicts - affected global maritime transport. Results reveal that non-military geopolitical crises exert the most significant negative impact, followed by extreme natural events and economic crises. The study reveals an intensification of disruptions in recent years, with significant events occurring on average every 14 months. It concludes that the port system exhibits adaptive resilience, although it requires proactive strategies to address the growing uncertainty of the global commercial environment.

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This study examines the evolving relationship between the United States and the Caribbean as the region shifts from traditional dependency to a more autonomous, multi-alignment diplomatic strategy. Despite long-standing preferential trade agreements, Caribbean economies remain narrowly focused and vulnerable to external shocks, limiting their capacity for diversification. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated a move toward strategic repositioning, as Small Island Developing States (SIDS) seek greater agency in a multipolar world.

In response, the authors propose a six-pillar framework to strengthen U.S.-Caribbean relations, focusing on export diversification, regional integration, and institutional capacity. This approach respects national sovereignty while promoting more dynamic, mutually beneficial partnerships. The analysis offers broader insights into how small states can navigate global shifts and how traditional partnerships, like that of the U.S. and the Caribbean, can be reimagined to support shared prosperity and resilience.

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This research analyzes the relationship between international investment arbitration and the attraction of foreign direct investment (FDI) between the European Union and MERCOSUR countries over the past 30 years. Through an interdisciplinary approach combining international law and economic analysis, it aims to assess how investment disputes and arbitral rulings affect FDI flows into MERCOSUR. The study includes a quantitative section using econometric models to determine whether a higher number of disputes provides greater legal certainty or, on the contrary, discourages investors. Additionally, it explores economic and regulatory policy implications to improve the investment climate without compromising the