UK’s Deputy Trade Commissioner visits Guatemala

By Mayora IP

United Kingdom’s Deputy Trade Commissioner, Spencer Mahony, visited Guatemala in order to strengthen bilateral economic and trade relations between Guatemala and the UK. “His trip reaffirms the commitment of the British government to champion UK trade with economic partners in the Central American region,” the British Embassy in Guatemala stated in a press release.

With this visit, the Deputy Trade Commissioner looked to understand 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.

For that purpose, the Deputy Trade Commissioner met with senior representatives of regional organisations, British multinationals, Guatemalan companies and participated in an event, co-organised with the British Chamber of Commerce, which highlighted the experience of UK companies doing business in Guatemala. The visit focused on priority sectors in which UK companies have great expertise and more interest to explore business opportunities in the region; sectors such as agritech, electric mobility, infrastructure, life and sciences, education and food and drink.

The Deputy Trade Commissioner also reinforced 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 wanting 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, UK-Guatemala total trade between October 2021 and September 2022 was USD 200 million; an increase of 6.3% compared to the same period the year before. Total UK exports to Guatemala amounted USD 80 million; these included refined oil, electrical goods, chemicals, cars and beverages. Total UK imports from Guatemala were USD 120 million and included vegetables, beverages, coffee, sugar and clothing.