Largest Economies in Latin America and the Caribbean
By Faisale Shefawe
Published on 09/23/24 at 7:10 PM ET
The economies of Latin America and the Caribbean are heavily dependent on agriculture and mining. The region is a major global producer and exporter of agricultural products such as fruits, vegetables, sugarcane, and meat. It is also renowned for its abundance of critical minerals and raw materials that are essential for global manufacturing. According to the World Bank, the region's economy is expected to grow by 2.3% in 2024 and 2.6% in 2025. The top five largest economies in the region are Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Colombia, and Chile.
1. Brazil
Brazil is the largest economy in Latin America, with a projected Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of $2.33 trillion in 2024. The country’s main exports include mining products, agricultural goods, and manufactured items. Brazil, with a population of 205 million, has an inflation rate of 4.1% and an unemployment rate of 8%. Its GDP is expected to grow by 2.1% in the coming year.
2. Mexico
Mexico, with a GDP of $2.02 trillion, is the second-largest economy in Latin America and the Caribbean. Its economy relies heavily on manufacturing, commerce, agriculture, mining, and energy production. Mexico, home to 132 million people, has an inflation rate of 4% and an unemployment rate of 2.8%. The country’s economy is projected to grow by 2.4% in 2024.
3. Argentina
Argentina ranks as the third-largest economy in the region, with a GDP of $604.26 billion. Its economy is highly dependent on agriculture, forestry, and fishing, and the country is one of the world’s leading exporters of soybeans, wheat, and meat. Argentina, with a population of 47.16 million, is currently battling high inflation, with the rate reaching 149.4%. In response, the government has introduced policies to reduce inflation, though the country’s economy is expected to contract by 2.8% as these measures take effect. The unemployment rate stands at 8%.
4. Colombia
Colombia is the fourth-largest economy in Latin America, with a GDP of $386.08 billion. The country’s economy is driven by natural resources, including oil, coal, and coffee exports. With a population of 52.69 million, Colombia faces an inflation rate of 6.4% and an unemployment rate of 9.9%. Economic growth in 2024 is expected to be around 1.1%.
5. Chile
Chile is the fifth-largest economy in Latin America, with a GDP of $333.76 billion. The country relies heavily on exports of copper, fruits, and seafood. Chile, with a population of 20.9 million, has an inflation rate of 3% and an unemployment rate of 8.7%. The country’s economy is projected to grow by 2% in 2024.
These five economies play pivotal roles in shaping the economic landscape of the Latin American and Caribbean region. While Argentina is expected to face economic contraction as it grapples with inflation, the other four countries are poised for stable growth in the coming years. With their wealth of natural resources, agricultural output, and manufacturing capabilities, the future for the region looks promising.