Natalio Mario Grinman, President of the Argentine Chamber of Commerce and Services (CAC), led the LIII General Assembly of the Ibero-American Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Services (AICO) in Cochabamba, Bolivia, according to an April 17 announcement. The event marked Grinman’s final meeting as head of AICO.
The assembly brought together business leaders, AICO officials, and Bolivian President Rodrigo Paz Pereira. In his address to attendees, Grinman discussed both international challenges and the role of the private sector. “Our realities are going through complex times. Although we are fortunate to live in a peaceful region on this continent, the world is facing a difficult situation. There are conflicts in different regions, which is regrettable both for the loss of lives and for its economic impact. We must be prepared to face it,” said Grinman.
Turning to regional matters, he commented on recent political changes: “In Argentina, since 2023 winds of change have begun to blow. Then Bolivia and Chile joined in. These winds herald a different future in which the role of the private sector is vital. The State has its functions to fulfill, and we must generate wealth so that each one of our countries can develop.”
Grinman also spoke about the effort needed for progress: “It takes enormous sacrifice from both entrepreneurs and citizens. Rebuilding what was destroyed over many decades requires considerable effort. Destroying is easy but building takes time. We have to be patient.”
He emphasized collective commitment as essential for development: “Our countries suffered for many years under governments that led us into poverty and business decline. We must commit ourselves. Progress is not about being right or left wing but about common sense so that our population comes out of poverty and misery and so that we create necessary conditions for private sector development.” He concluded his remarks by saying: “The effort is worth it.” The assembly also included sessions from the LXI Board Meeting of the Inter-American Commercial Arbitration Commission (CIAC).
The gathering highlighted ongoing discussions among business leaders regarding economic recovery efforts across Latin America.
