Latin American Economic Outlook 2020
Digital Transformation for Building Back Better
The Latin American Economic Outlook (LEO) 2020 focuses on the role of digital transformation in helping to navigate through challenging times. The Covid-19 pandemic is having a profound impact on socio-economic conditions, accentuating the already complex scenario faced by a region with significant structural weaknesses. This unprecedented crisis comes at a time of high aspirations and reinforces the need to transform the very foundations of the development model in the region. The report explores how digital transformation can help to cope with the current socio-economic situation, boost productivity, strengthen institutions and achieve higher levels of inclusion and well-being. The LEO 2020 also highlights that international partnerships are fundamental to reaping the benefits of the digital transformation.
The LEO is a joint annual publication produced by the OECD Development Centre, the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (UN ECLAC), the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF) and the European Union (EU). It is the first pillar of the EU Regional Facility for Development in Transition for Latin America and the Caribbean.
Also available in: Spanish
Uruguay
Uruguay continues to stand out in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) in terms of shaping an inclusive digital economy and society. The country has made considerable efforts to enhance digital access and use for all. Internet users, active mobile broadband and fixed broadband subscriptions increased in the last decade. Uruguay rose in the E-Government Development Index from 0.56 in 2008 to 0.79 in 2018, which is above the LAC average (0.65) but below the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) average (0.82). The UNCTAD B2C E-commerce Index shows that the economy’s support for online shopping is still above the LAC average. This positive result is partly attributed to the development of digital banking in the country.
Also available in: Spanish