While enforcement of this regulation has been virtually non-existant, compliance is increasing. Full enforcement could have a significant impact on U.S. exports. Sanitary licenses are required for all imports of animal origin. Inspection of the processing plant in the country of origin, at the importers expense, is required for the license. Implementation of this requirement has been uneven.
Some restrictions remain on foreign investment.
Sub-surface minerals, petroleum, and other resources are considered State property. Concessions are typically granted in the form of production-sharing contracts. The solicitation and contracting process for energy concessions tends to be protracted and non-transparent. Some foreign oil companies assert that the Guatemalan royalty scale is not competitive. Restrictions on housing construction are so onerous they virtually exclude foreign participation.