President Hugo Chávez has decided to sustain an international fuel assistance program for low-income Americans. But dropping oil prices could force his government to feel the economic pinch and slow international oil diplomacy efforts.

Falling commodity prices and the global liquidity crisis present a challenge for Latin America’s energy sector. An AS/COA panel analyzed how these factors affect energy investment.

Originally published in Americas Quarterly, Dominican Republic President Leonel Fernández's memo to the U.S. President-elect calls for investing a portion of oil profits in countries that have been hit hardest by rising oil and food prices.

At a time when ethanol production faces the effects of the global credit crunch, questions arise about how Latin America and a new U.S. administration will cooperate in the field of biofuels.

After months of debate, Mexican Congress passed a historic energy reform package granting Pemex greater autonomy and the right to sign incentive-based contracts with private firms.

After months of debate, Mexico’s Congress overwhelmingly approved energy reform with the goal of ending a production slump. The reforms strengthen the authority of Pemex’s management, amongst other changes. But some analysts wonder if the new laws go far enough.

Since July, commodity prices have contracted, threatening spending programs and fiscal policy in Venezuela in particular. But the Chávez government remains optimistic amid cautionary calls.