Opportunities of the Association Agreement between the UK and Central America

By Mayora IP

United Kingdom Trade Commissioner Jonathan Knott traveled to Guatemala on 29-30 September 2022 as part of a tour to Central America to champion UK trade with economic partners in the region.

With this visit, the Commissioner strengthened bilateral trade relations between the UK and Guatemala, understanding the priorities of Guatemala and the projects it has in the pipeline in order to identify key areas where the UK can offer its expertise.

During the meetings, the Commissioner highlighted the United Kingdom’s interest in continuing to work with Guatemala to create more opportunities that help build closer commercial ties.

Knott remarked the opportunities that the Association Agreement between the UK and Central America brings to foster the trade relation with Guatemala and promote business possibilities to UK companies looking to expand overseas. He stressed the importance to promote a level-playing field for British companies trying to do more business in Guatemala and strengthen the rule of law to attract more trade and investors to the country.

According to UK statistics, total trade between the UK and Guatemala was USD 236 million in 2021. Total UK exports to Guatemala amounted USD 88 million; these included cars, beverages, chemicals and specialised machinery. Total UK imports from Guatemala were USD 148 million and included vegetables, fruits, coffee, sugar and beverages.