Uruguay has well-functioning democratic institutions and relatively low levels of corruption. In 2024, Uruguay was ranked 13 out of 180 countries for lowest level of perceived corruption by Transparency International. The country boasts a strong banking sector adhering to international financial standards, and it is strategically located in the region with political and economic stability. The current administration maintains open trade policies and sound macroeconomic strategies.

Following the 2024 national elections and since inauguration in March 2025, the new administration under President Orsi has expressed a strong desire to collaborate closely with the United States on various regional and bilateral issues, including energy and space. The government is exploring potential commercial space port development and is taking a balanced approach to energy development, supporting both fossil fuels and renewable energy projects. This includes ongoing support for offshore oil and gas projects and exploring the potential for gas imports.

Macroeconomic stability and innovation are key focuses for the administration. Efforts are being made to break down barriers to innovation, lessen the regulatory burden, and reform investment regimes to attract greater foreign and domestic investment. The administration is also prioritizing the growth of the IT services sector, which is closely tied to the United States, and aims to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by streamlining bureaucratic procedures and cutting red tape. Uruguay continues to signal a strong openness to bilateral cooperation with the United States and plans to build on previous U.S.–supported policies.

Uruguay has quietly established itself as a reliable logistics and distribution hub in South America – an asset that should not be overlooked as the United States seeks to strengthen the security and resiliency of its supply chains. Please refer to Transportation and Logistics Services for more information.