Although Guatemala has received solid support from the USA and international institutions such as the Inter-American Development Bank and the IMF, its economic development in the last 25 years has been undermined by chronic internal conflict, exacerbated by several major natural disasters. The USA is substantially Guatemala's largest trading partner, followed by El Salvador, Honduras, Mexico and some EU countries, notably Germany and Italy. Guatemala is a member of the Central American Common Market. Guatemalan businessmen tend to be rather formal and conservative. Normal courtesies should be observed and appointments should be made.
Punctuality is appreciated and calling cards can be useful.
The Centro Cultural Miguel Angel Asturias and other modern conference centres are available for such events, often quite close, or accessible to Guatemala's beauty spots. Terms and Conditions apply.