Latin American Roundtable: Regulation and Practice in Infrastructure and Energy Investments

Despite its continuing development over the past thirty years, Latin America today faces the major challenge of the modernization of its infrastructure and of the exploitation of its resources. To varying degrees, all countries in the region must attract significant investments in these areas.

The goal of our roundtable is to offer to French companies an overview of the legal and regulatory situation in three Latin America countries.

Brazil: Although Brazil’s infrastructure sector has slowed in the midst of crisis, the country recently introduced a new investment program known as “Crescer” consolidating some thirty projects for the period 2017-2018 for a total budget envelope if of the order of €11 billion. This agenda, although modest compared to previous infrastructure programs, appears more achievable, generating great hope.

Colombia: Colombia has positioned itself over the past years as possessing one of the most conducive business environments in Latin America. Thanks to favorable government policies, the construction sectors, infrastructure and energy today represent an important part of foreign investment.

Peru: The Peruvian economy, lagging behind in comparison to its Pacific Alliance partners, focuses on infrastructure development to ensure growth. An ambitious 2018-2019 infrastructure program was launched by the Peruvian government and includes 44 projects for an estimated value of $9.4 million.

The discussions will be led by a panel composed of attorneys from leading law firms in each of the countries concerned, who will address the concrete solutions to be put in place by French investors to ensure the success of their operations in the region.

The round table will be led by partner Nicolas Lafont, head of the Latin America Desk at McDermott Will & Emery Paris, and we are delighted to welcome distinguished panelists:

• Pedro G. Seraphim, Tozzini Freire Advogados, Brazil
• Jaime Robledo Vásquez, Brigard & Urrutia, Colombia
• Mariana Simoes, Philippi Prietocarrizosa Ferrero DU & Uría, Peru

The presentations will be made in French and English.

For more information, please contact Barbara Bebiano.