Latin America Commentary & Analysis

What to expect from Rubio’s trip to Central America and the Caribbean

By Jason Marczak, María Fernanda Bozmoski

The US secretary of state lands in Panama on February 1 to kick off his first foreign trip. Here’s what to expect at every stop on migration, security, and more.

Beyond the border: Your briefing on US-Mexico commerce

By the Adrienne Arsht Latin America Center

The first edition of the Beyond the border: Your briefing on US-Mexico commerce newsletter.

Tariffs on Canada and Mexico could hurt Trump’s quest for US energy dominance

By David L. Goldwyn, Joseph Webster

A trade war against Canada and Mexico could affect US energy prices and have significant geopolitical ramifications.

What China’s BYD really wants from EV investments in Mexico

By Haley Nelson

BYD, the world's largest EV manufacturer, is moving forward with plans to build a manufacturing plant in Mexico despite the country's ongoing trade friction with the US. This decision signals a wider strategy to embed Chinese influence in Mexico's energy infrastructure, given BYD's potential to dominate the market.

Expert context: What’s going on with Trump and the Panama Canal?

By Atlantic Council experts

With US President Donald Trump focusing on the critical waterway early in his second term, Atlantic Council experts explain how the canal came about, why it matters today, and what to expect next.

Explainer: US tariffs on Mexico

Following President Trump’s announcement around potential 25 percent tariffs on imports from Mexico, what are the possible economic implications for both the United States and its southern neighbor? The measure could go into effect as soon as February 1, 2025. This explainer provides key data and perspectives to understand this topic.

What to know about Trump’s day-one promise to take back the Panama Canal

By Jason Marczak

Trump's presidency can be an opportunity to further use the tools of the US government to advance the US business presence in Panama.

Trump has an advantage in upcoming USMCA trade talks. Here’s how his team can use it.

By Sophia Busch

The Trump administration should take stock of the economic leverage—and dependencies—the United States has with Mexico and Canada ahead of 2026.

How Sheinbaum can strengthen US-Mexico ties in Trump’s first 100 days

By Rene Dominguez Castro

Decisions taken in the next few months about the US-Mexico relationship could shape the two nations’ bilateral ties for years to come.

US intervention against Mexican cartels carries major risks. Here’s how to mitigate them.

By Doug Livermore

Cartels have a significant capability to retaliate, but there are ways that the United States can prepare for such risks.