CAF announces the first edition of the Latin American and Caribbean Economic Forum 2025 in Panama
By Guy José Bendaña-Guerrero & Asociados

The Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF) announced the hosting of the Latin America and the Caribbean International Economic Forum 2025: "How to return to the path of growth?" to be held from January 29 to 30, 2025, at the Panama Convention Centre. This high-level event will bring together global and regional leaders to discuss and formulate strategies to promote sustainable economic growth and the well-being of people from Latin America and the Caribbean.
The forum will address how the region can achieve inclusive and sustainable economic growth in the coming years. It will serve as a meeting place between the private sector, government authorities and the multilateral sphere to identify and promote innovative strategies that strengthen institutions, promote innovation and digitalisation, advance the transition to green energy, develop strategic infrastructure and generate inclusive opportunities for all.
"Latin America and the Caribbean has the potential to become a region of global solutions to the great challenges of development, but at the same time it must achieve sustained and inclusive growth and address its structural problems, such as inequalities, low productivity or poverty reduction. This Forum will be a key step towards these goals, as it will outline concrete action plans to improve the quality of life and create a fairer, more resilient and sustainable economy", said Sergio Díaz-Granados, CAF's Executive President.
During the two-day event, a series of sessions will be held that will include panel discussions, keynotes, and collaborative workshops. The sessions will cover the following topics:
-Elevating Latin America and the Caribbean's presence in the global market. Strategies for an effective internationalisation of the region.
-Wealth and energy transition in Latin America and the Caribbean. Exploring the role of renewable resources and energies.
-Between Cali and Belém. The role of the private sector and philanthropy in closing the climate and biodiversity finance gap.
-Start your mind: Companies and entrepreneurs, the engine of a sustainable future. How entrepreneurship drives sustainable development in the region.
-Technology to close financial inclusion gaps: challenges and opportunities. How technology can facilitate financial inclusion in the region.
-The voice of businessmen and entrepreneurs: Challenges and commitments of the private sector. Analysis of the challenges and commitments of the private sector in the region.
-Fireside chat: Nothing about us without us. Women in decision-making areas on the growth and development of LAC.