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CAF – Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean – has approved a record $5.2 billion in financing for 16 sustainable development projects across 10 countries, the largest single round of credit approvals in its history. The decision was announced at a landmark Board of Directors meeting in Seville, which also marked the formal inclusion of Guatemala and Saint Lucia as new shareholder countries.
CAF Executive President Sergio Díaz-Granados described the approvals as “historic,” highlighting CAF’s growing role in bridging financing gaps and advancing inclusive development. “Never before has CAF approved so many credit operations, nor such a large amount to finance the integral development of Latin America and the Caribbean,” he said.
Regional Expansion and Membership Growth
The addition of Guatemala and Saint Lucia as Series “C” shareholders expands CAF’s geographic reach and strengthens its influence in Central America and the Caribbean. Barbados was also confirmed as a full member, while Antigua and Barbuda increased their capital contribution—enhancing CAF’s engagement in the region.
“These incorporations broaden our geographic scope and deepen regional integration,” Díaz-Granados added.
Key Project Highlights
- Argentina: $150 million for aqueduct modernization in Chubut Province.
- Bolivia: $110 million for the Chichas Solar Plant to support renewable energy adoption.
- Chile: $700 million for the second phase of rail infrastructure upgrades.
- The Bahamas: $100 million to modernize energy systems and expand renewables in CAF’s first project in the country.
- Colombia:
- $350 million for climate action and biodiversity.
- $150 million for expanded rural mental health services.
- $240 million for air navigation infrastructure.
- $200 million for Bogotá’s urban mobility plan.
- Costa Rica: $500 million for CAF’s first green contingent credit line.
- Paraguay: $100 million revolving line of credit to support SME growth via AFD.
- Peru:
- $800 million to overhaul the national penitentiary system—the most ambitious justice reform in South America.
- $500 million to expand natural gas access to 9 million people in Lima and Callao.
- Additional funds for urban infrastructure and social development in underserved areas.
- Panama: Support for forest management and biodiversity conservation.
- Regional: $250 million non-revolving credit line to Sacyr Group for sustainable projects such as water systems, hospitals, waste management, and green businesses across CAF member countries.
Advancing Sustainable and Inclusive Growth
The newly approved projects span critical sectors such as clean energy, transportation, healthcare, biodiversity, and digital infrastructure. They reinforce CAF’s strategic commitment to sustainability, climate resilience, and regional cooperation.
By diversifying its project portfolio and expanding its shareholder base, CAF aims to catalyze long-term, inclusive economic growth and enhance the region’s capacity to meet global development and climate targets.
