Sectors with Potential to Strengthen Trade Relations Between India and Latin America, According to Experts
A new report by the Social Research Center identifies technology, renewable energy, healthcare, and agribusiness as key areas for bilateral trade.
Bogotá, Colombia – March 17, 2026.
A recent study compiling the opinions of 32 experts in trade, economics, and technology highlights the sectors with the greatest potential to increase trade between India and Latin America in the medium term (over the next three years). Analysts agree that technology, digital services, renewable energy, healthcare, and agribusiness are strategic areas for strengthening the economic relationship between the two regions.
To achieve this synergy, it is important to overcome certain institutional and administrative barriers that hinder an adequate flow of trade between both sides. Participants in the study identified obstacles such as bureaucratic procedures, differences in regulations and standards, additional costs for SMEs, lack of information and institutional support, as well as logistical and infrastructure limitations. In this regard, they believe that the digitalization and standardization of processes, mutual recognition agreements, sectoral bilateral cooperation, and logistical optimization — including the modernization of ports, transportation systems, and cargo traceability — could help overcome these challenges.
In addition, the experts consulted point out that current tensions between the United States and China, along with global volatility, are creating opportunities for India and Latin America to explore alternative trade partnerships. “Regional instability and the evolution of trade blocs in Latin America may affect business predictability,” notes Rajesh Bhatt, a professional specializing in fashion retail, sales and marketing, team leadership, and business growth strategy.
The expansion of BRICS with Latin American countries such as Brazil and Argentina also creates institutional frameworks and political support that facilitate economic cooperation. This is complemented by the recognition of the advantages each region offers: Latin America possesses critical minerals and abundant natural resources, while India contributes technology and growing industrial demand.
In this context, experts agree that companies must establish local partnerships, monitor regulations, and manage political risks in order to strengthen commercial ties. They also emphasize that those who invest in regional presence during periods of uncertainty may gain competitive advantages.
Certain catalysts for deepening trade relations beyond the exchange of goods could include cooperation in services and digital technology, infrastructure and investment, health and education, innovation and knowledge transfer, as well as tourism and culture.
Regarding the countries in the region with the greatest potential for successful trade collaboration with India, Brazil, Mexico, and Chile stand out as the leading candidates. These countries combine market size, stability, and strategic resources, functioning as gateways for India into the broader Latin American region.
“Brazil is India’s main trading partner in the region, with significant potential in sectors such as energy, agribusiness, and biotechnology. Mexico combines its proximity to North America with a strong industrial base that supports technological cooperation and investment in advanced manufacturing. Chile stands out for its economic stability and leadership in renewable energy, mining, and free trade policies,” says Jesús Sánchez, a mechanical engineer specialized in identifying, understanding, and proposing innovative solutions to complex challenges.
Overall, the study’s findings suggest that although geographical distance and regulatory differences remain significant challenges, there is substantial potential to deepen the economic relationship between India and Latin America. The combination of productive complementarities, technological cooperation, and improvements in logistics and digitalization could help consolidate a more dynamic and competitive trade corridor between the two regions in the coming years.
To achieve this synergy, it is important to overcome certain institutional and administrative barriers that hinder an adequate flow of trade between both sides. Participants in the study identified obstacles such as bureaucratic procedures, differences in regulations and standards, additional costs for SMEs, lack of information and institutional support, as well as logistical and infrastructure limitations. In this regard, they believe that the digitalization and standardization of processes, mutual recognition agreements, sectoral bilateral cooperation, and logistical optimization — including the modernization of ports, transportation systems, and cargo traceability — could help overcome these challenges.
In addition, the experts consulted point out that current tensions between the United States and China, along with global volatility, are creating opportunities for India and Latin America to explore alternative trade partnerships. “Regional instability and the evolution of trade blocs in Latin America may affect business predictability,” notes Rajesh Bhatt, a professional specializing in fashion retail, sales and marketing, team leadership, and business growth strategy.
The expansion of BRICS with Latin American countries such as Brazil and Argentina also creates institutional frameworks and political support that facilitate economic cooperation. This is complemented by the recognition of the advantages each region offers: Latin America possesses critical minerals and abundant natural resources, while India contributes technology and growing industrial demand.
In this context, experts agree that companies must establish local partnerships, monitor regulations, and manage political risks in order to strengthen commercial ties. They also emphasize that those who invest in regional presence during periods of uncertainty may gain competitive advantages.
Certain catalysts for deepening trade relations beyond the exchange of goods could include cooperation in services and digital technology, infrastructure and investment, health and education, innovation and knowledge transfer, as well as tourism and culture.
Regarding the countries in the region with the greatest potential for successful trade collaboration with India, Brazil, Mexico, and Chile stand out as the leading candidates. These countries combine market size, stability, and strategic resources, functioning as gateways for India into the broader Latin American region.
“Brazil is India’s main trading partner in the region, with significant potential in sectors such as energy, agribusiness, and biotechnology. Mexico combines its proximity to North America with a strong industrial base that supports technological cooperation and investment in advanced manufacturing. Chile stands out for its economic stability and leadership in renewable energy, mining, and free trade policies,” says Jesús Sánchez, a mechanical engineer specialized in identifying, understanding, and proposing innovative solutions to complex challenges.
Overall, the study’s findings suggest that although geographical distance and regulatory differences remain significant challenges, there is substantial potential to deepen the economic relationship between India and Latin America. The combination of productive complementarities, technological cooperation, and improvements in logistics and digitalization could help consolidate a more dynamic and competitive trade corridor between the two regions in the coming years.