Latin America: The term generally refers to the region in the Americas where Romance languages (derived from Latin) are spoken, primarily Spanish and Portuguese.
Here’s a list of countries commonly considered part of Latin America:
- Argentina
- Bolivia
- Brazil
- Chile
- Colombia
- Costa Rica
- Cuba
- Dominican Republic
- Ecuador
- El Salvador
- Guatemala
- Honduras
- Mexico
- Nicaragua
- Panama
- Paraguay
- Peru
- Puerto Rico (territory of the United States)
- Uruguay
- Venezuela
Additionally, some definitions may include the countries of Central America and the Caribbean as well. Sometimes, the countries of French Guiana (an overseas department of France), Belize and Guyana are considered part of the broader Latin American region, though the inclusion can vary depending on the context.
Ibero-America (Iberoamérica/Ibero-América)
This is generally considered to be the region in the Americas comprising countries or territories where Spanish or Portuguese are predominant languages: usually former territories of Portugal or Spain. Portugal and Spain are themselves sometimes included in some Ibero-American diplomatic circles, such as the Ibero-American Summit and the Organization of Ibero-American States. The Organization of Ibero-American States also includes Spanish-speaking Equatorial Guinea, in Central Africa, but not the Portuguese-speaking African countries. The Latin Recording Academy, the organisation responsible for the Latin Grammy Awards, also includes Spain and Portugal as well as the Latino population of Canada and the United States in their definition of Ibero-America.
South America
Europeans referred to the Western Hemisphere as the New World, with South America encompassing the southern portion of this New World. This realm includes the entire continent of South America, which is geographically smaller than North America. South America, as a continent, is larger than Europe, Antarctica or Australia, but smaller than Africa or Asia. Nearly the entire landmass of South America lies east of the meridian that runs through Miami, Florida. The continent is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west. The narrow Isthmus of Panama serves as a natural boundary between South America and its northern neighbours, while the Caribbean Sea forms its northern border.
Central America
Central America is a region in the southern part of North America, connecting North and South America. It consists of seven countries: Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, and Panama. This region is characterised by its diverse geography, including rainforests, mountains and coastlines along both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
Central America is known for its rich cultural heritage, influenced by indigenous civilisations such as the Maya, as well as by Spanish colonialism.
Who lives there?
As of the most recent data, here are the approximate populations of some Latin American countries:
Brazil: 213 million
Mexico: 126 million
Colombia: 52 million
Argentina: 46 million
Peru: 34 million
Venezuela: 33 million
Chile: 19 million
Guatemala: 18 million
Ecuador: 18 million
Bolivia: 12 million
Honduras: 10 million
Paraguay: 7 million
El Salvador: 6.5 million
Nicaragua: 6.3 million
Costa Rica: 5 million
Panama: 4.5 million
Uruguay: 3.5 million
Guyana: 800,000
Suriname: 600,000
Belize: 400,000
Note: Population numbers are rounded estimates and can vary slightly based on different sources and the year of the estimate.
What they export
The main airfreight exports from Latin America vary by country but generally include a range of perishable goods, high-value commodities and manufacturing products. Here are some of the key airfreight exports:
Flowers: Colombia: One of the largest exporters of cut flowers, particularly roses and carnations. Ecuador: Known for high-quality roses.
Fresh Produce: Chile: Exports a variety of fruits, including grapes, cherries, blueberries, and avocados. Peru: Major exports include asparagus, avocados, mangoes, and berries. Mexico: Known for avocados, berries, and other fresh fruits and vegetables.
Seafood: Chile: Significant exports of salmon and other seafood products. Peru: Known for exporting fish and seafood, including scallops and shrimp.
Meat: Argentina: Exports beef and other meat products. Brazil: Major exporter of beef, poultry, and pork.
Pharmaceuticals and Medical Products: Various countries in Latin America produce and export pharmaceuticals and medical supplies, often to neighbouring countries and global markets.
Electronics and Machinery: Mexico: Significant exports of electronics, automotive parts, and machinery, often to the United States and other international markets.
Textiles and Apparel: Various countries, particularly those with significant manufacturing sectors, export textiles and apparel products.
Coffee: Brazil: The world’s largest producer and exporter of coffee. Colombia: Renowned for high-quality coffee beans.
Cocoa and Chocolate Products: Ecuador: Known for fine cocoa beans used in premium chocolate production. Brazil: Also a significant exporter of cocoa.
These exports are driven by Latin America’s diverse climates, which allow for the production of a wide range of agricultural products, and by the region’s growing manufacturing and industrial sectors. Airfreight is particularly important for perishable and high-value goods that require quick and reliable transportation to international markets.
In the history books
The history of airfreight in Latin America spans several decades and has evolved significantly alongside advancements in aviation technology, economic development, and global trade.
The first flight by a Latin American is credited to the Brazilian aviation pioneer Alberto Santos-Dumont. On October 23, 1906, Santos-Dumont made a historic flight in his aircraft, the “14-bis”, at the Bagatelle Field in Paris, France. Although this event took place in Europe, it is significant because Santos-Dumont was a prominent figure from Latin America, specifically Brazil.
However, the first flight within Latin America itself occurred a few years later. The first powered flight in Brazil was made by Brazilian aviator Dimitri Sensaud de Lavaud on January 7, 1910. He flew a biplane named “São Paulo” at Osasco, a suburb of São Paulo. This flight marked the beginning of aviation in Brazil and Latin America. Argentina, for example, saw its first powered flight on March 30, 1910, when Jorge Newbery piloted a Voisin biplane in Buenos Aires.
Here are some key points in the history of airfreight in the region:
Early Development (1920s-1940s):
In the early 20th century, aviation in Latin America was primarily focused on passenger transport and mail delivery. As aviation technology improved, particularly during and after World War II, the potential for transporting cargo by air began to be explored.
Expansion and Commercialisation (1950s-1970s):
During the mid-20th century, Latin American countries started to develop their aviation infrastructure to support airfreight operations. Major airports were expanded and modernised to accommodate larger cargo aircraft and increased volumes of goods. The introduction of jet aircraft in the 1960s enabled faster and more efficient air cargo transport, boosting trade between Latin America and other regions.
Emergence of Key Airports and Routes:
Airports like São Paulo-Guarulhos (Brazil), Mexico City International (Mexico), and Jorge Chávez International (Peru) became major hubs for airfreight in their respective countries and regions. Air routes connecting Latin American countries with North America, Europe, and Asia expanded, facilitating the export of goods such as fresh produce, flowers, and electronics.
Modernisation and Technological Advances (1980s-Present):
The 1980s saw further advancements in airfreight logistics, including the introduction of more sophisticated cargo handling systems and refrigeration technologies for perishable goods. Globalisation and trade agreements facilitated the growth of export-oriented industries in Latin America, leading to increased demand for airfreight services. The adoption of digital technologies and e-commerce in the 21st century further transformed airfreight operations, enabling real-time tracking and management of shipments.
Challenges and Opportunities:
Infrastructure challenges, including outdated facilities and limited air cargo capacity at some airports, have been barriers to further growth in the sector. However, initiatives such as airport modernisation projects and public-private partnerships have aimed to address these challenges and improve logistics efficiency. Latin American countries continue to focus on enhancing connectivity and competitiveness in airfreight to capitalise on global trade opportunities and support economic growth. Overall, the history of airfreight in Latin America reflects the region’s integration into global supply chains and its ongoing efforts to enhance infrastructure and logistics capabilities to meet the demands of international trade.
How much is it worth?
As of the latest available data, here are the approximate Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figures for Latin American countries. Note that these figures are subject to change as new economic data becomes available:
Brazil: $2.05 trillion
Mexico: $1.40 trillion
Argentina: $690 billion
Colombia: $390 billion
Chile: $380 billion
Peru: $300 billion
Venezuela: $210 billion (Note: Due to the ongoing economic crisis, this figure is highly variable and may not reflect current conditions accurately.)
Ecuador: $210 billion
Guatemala: $220 billion
Honduras: $110 billion
Paraguay: $90 billion
Uruguay: $80 billion
Costa Rica: $90 billion
El Salvador: $35 billion
Nicaragua: $15 billion
Panama: $80 billion
Guyana: $12 billion
Suriname: $8 billion
Belize: $2 billion
These GDP figures represent nominal values, which are the total market value of all final goods and services produced within a country in a given period, usually one year. For the most current and precise figures, checking the latest data from sources like the International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank or national statistical agencies is recommended.
