Letter from the Chief Executive Officer

Dear members, associates and friends of ALABC,

May has been election month!

For those who are keen followers of Latin American politics, two very interesting elections took place in Panama and Mexico in May. Former security minister and last-minute candidate, Jose Raul Mulino achieved a clear majority to take Panama’s presidency. President Mulino ran on a pro-investment, pro-business platform, which should hopefully provide the unity and stability the country needs and a positive environment for Australian trade and investment opportunities.

Bigger news is that Mexico elected its first female president, Claudia Sheinbaum, with a record-breaking primary vote. With a likely majority in both houses, the Morena party’s second term government has a clear mandate to continue with their popular welfare policy. It won’t be all clear sailing however, as Mexico must prioritize fiscal responsibility, trade and investment, and balancing the nation’s stubborn budget deficit. Mexico continues to be a regional and manufacturing powerhouse, and as Australia’s top LATAM trading partner the landscape looks positive for continued business growth.

ALABC also held its Annual General Meeting in May and I am pleased to announce our board for 2024: Valeria Alvano, Richard Andrews, Julie Boden, Harris Gomez, Liliana Harris, Monica Mendez, Paola Lasso, Rob Whiddon, Julio Gonzalez and Felipe Hodar. Congratulations everyone. I would like to welcome newly elected board member Liliana Harris who I had the privilege of spending some time with recently and was excited to hear about her ideas for ALABC. I would also like to extend my sincere good wishes to outgoing board member Aileen Croghan who has been a tireless advocate and supporter of ALABC during her tenure. Special mention and thanks to Paul Murphy of Mining Plus and Julian Aras who nominated, but where not successful on this occasion.

ALABC will be hosting an Education round table in July and will be posting for expressions of interest soon. Please check our website and socials for updates on this and other events.

Saludos,

Kim Prior

Chief Executive Officer
ceo@alabc.com.au

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