The event, held at the entity's headquarters in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, emphasized the archipelago's strategic position as a hub for attracting investments and new economic relationships. Common elements connecting Canarias, Puerto Rico, and Chile were highlighted: open economies with a clear outward orientation, focused on accompanying their companies in an increasingly globalized scenario.
The opening was attended by the Chamber's president, Santiago Sesé; Gain CEO, Ricardo Benítez; ProChile Commercial Office Director, Gabriel Guggisberg; Invest Puerto Rico Business Development Director, David Pérez-Larson; Insular Director of External Action, Pedro González; PROEXCA CEO, Pablo Martín Carbajal; and the Honorary Consul of Chile in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Rafael Montero. Representatives from various entities and companies were also present.
Santiago Sesé highlighted Canarias' role as a “reference territory in the Atlantic and a link between America, Africa, and Europe, building future economic and business relationships.” He stated that the event allows for firsthand knowledge of the opportunities offered by Puerto Rico and Chile, as well as showcasing the archipelago's capabilities and potential. He stressed that the internationalization of island companies involves creating alliances, knowledge, identifying partners, and generating joint projects.
Gain CEO, Ricardo Benítez, emphasized Canarias' appeal to Puerto Rican companies, stating they are “eager to take a plane, come here, and start partnering.” He explained that Puerto Rico serves as a bridge between North and South America.
For his part, Gabriel Guggisberg, representing ProChile, discussed Chile's ongoing economic diversification, mentioning opportunities in sectors such as green energy, lithium mining, agri-food, and recycling. He noted Chile's recognition by Forbes as a Latin American country with a favorable business environment.
Finally, David Pérez-Larson from Invest Puerto Rico reviewed Puerto Rico's economy, describing it as the most diversified in the Caribbean and highlighting its attractiveness for international investment, benefiting from its status as a U.S. territory with access to the federal market and legal framework.
The event concluded with a coffee and networking session, enabling attendees to establish new contacts and explore potential business collaborations.
