Uruguay

The recovery of the agricultural sector after prolonged drought, increased hydroelectric generation and growth in trade and cellulose industries has driven Uruguay economic growth in the past year, recording a +3,1% in 2024

On International Women's Day, thousands of women marched in Montevideo demanding that progressive laws be backed with real financial support, emphasizing the fight against gender violence, inequality, and advocating for social change

Uruguay declared a national health alert after bird flu cases were detected in Argentina’s Chaco province, urging poultry farmers and veterinarians to enhance surveillance, biosecurity, and preventive measures to mitigate risks to biodiversity

Uruguay is aiming to lead bio-packaging production in Latin America, leveraging its forestry industry and hemp regulation; however, its success will depend on overcoming challenges such as initial costs, recycling infrastructure, and consumer education

Uruguay's tourism sector is optimistic following Argentina's removal of the PAÍS tax, which eliminates several fees, boosting Uruguay’s appeal; benefits like VAT exemptions on hospitality, dining, and car rentals hope to further attract Argentine tourists

The surge in online shopping driven by the "Temu effect" has overwhelmed Uruguay's customs operations, doubling package volumes; the National Customs Directorate has enacted new measures to streamline processes

Uruguay and South Korea are deepening their agricultural biotechnology partnership through a cooperation agreement, focusing on sustainable innovations such as drought-resistant soy and genetically modified crops, positioning Uruguay as a regional leader

Yamandú Orsi of the Frente Amplio party won Uruguay's presidential election with 49% of the votes, defeating Álvaro Delgado, marking a return of the left to power with promises of economic stability, social equity, and tackling public insecurity

Anti-waste sanctions have been imposed on Argentine soybean imports aiming to restore fair competition after an investigation found significant Argentinian soybean waste harming local producers

The recent narrowing of the price gap between Uruguay and Argentina is boosting local commerce and employment in Uruguay’s border regions, as consumers increasingly choose to shop locally rather than cross the border

In Uruguay's presidential election, leftist candidate Yamandú Orsi won the most votes but will face Álvaro Delgado in a runoff on November 24, as no candidate achieved an outright majority

Presidential election process has begun; citizens will vote for the next president, members of the Parliament and 2 referendums: one on lowering the retirement age, and another on allowing police nighttime home searches