The IDB says exports from Latin America and the Caribbean grew strongly in the first quarter of 2026. The value of goods exported from the region increased by 15.7% compared with the same period last year. This follows export growth of 7.8% in 2025.

According to the Inter-American Development Bank’s latest Trade Trends Estimates report, higher export volumes and stronger prices drove the increase. Mining products made a major contribution. Gold and copper exports performed especially well. Agribusiness products such as soybeans, coffee, and meat also recorded strong growth. Oil exports added to the positive results.

Paolo Giordano, a principal economist at the IDB, said the region continues to improve its export performance. He noted that countries have shown an ability to adapt despite uncertainty in global trade. He said the current momentum creates opportunities to improve productivity, boost competitiveness, and expand access to international markets.

The report says the trade outlook remains positive. However, risks remain. Changes in global prices could increase costs for countries that import food and energy. Commodity-exporting countries could benefit from higher prices. Rising fertiliser and transportation costs may also affect producers and exporters across the region.

Imports continued to increase as well. The report estimates that total imports grew by 6.7% in 2025. They rose by 9.7% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026. Most of the growth came from purchases outside the region. Trade between countries in Latin America and the Caribbean expanded at a slower pace.

The IDB said commodity prices followed different trends during 2026. The report said changes in global supply and demand, along with shifts in international trade patterns, continue to influence prices around the world.

He noted that the current momentum provides an opportunity for countries to improve productivity, strengthen competitiveness, expand participation in international markets, and build greater resilience to external shocks.

While the outlook for regional trade remains positive, the report highlights several challenges. Changes in global prices could create additional pressure for countries that rely on imported energy and food, while commodity-exporting nations could benefit from higher prices. At the same time, rising fertiliser and transportation costs may increase production and marketing expenses, creating both opportunities and risks for exporters in the months ahead.

The report also found that imports across Latin America and the Caribbean continued to grow. Total imports increased by an estimated 6.7% in 2025 and rose 9.7% year-on-year during the first quarter of 2026. The growth was driven mainly by purchases from outside the region, while trade between countries within Latin America and the Caribbean expanded at a slower pace.

According to the IDB, commodity prices showed mixed trends during 2026 as global supply and demand patterns continued to shift, reflecting increasing fragmentation in international trade markets.