What the study found
Singapore policymakers characterize Latin America as open to trade and emphasize shared views with Latin American leaders. The authors say this framing supports Singapore’s effort to extend its network of commercial and investment agreements and fits its wider foreign policy.
Why the authors say this matters
The study suggests that Singapore’s approach to Latin America is part of a tertiary hedging strategy, meaning a way of managing uncertainty by supporting a rules-based economic international order that the authors say is fundamental to Singapore’s prosperity and survival. The authors also conclude that the role of Singapore in inter-regionalism deserves more attention.
What the researchers tested
The paper adapts the concepts of geopolitical codes and hedging. It uses discourse analysis of official speeches and statements by Singaporean officials, together with a survey of existing literature, to produce a thematic analysis.
What worked and what didn't
The analysis found repeated characterization of Latin America as a region open to trade, along with constant emphasis on like-mindedness between Singaporean and Latin American leaders. The abstract does not report any opposing findings or unsuccessful elements.
What to keep in mind
The abstract does not describe specific limitations. It also presents the study as a constructivist contribution based on official discourse and literature, so the findings are limited to the evidence and framing described there.
Key points
- Singapore officials portray Latin America as open to trade.
- The study links this framing to Singapore’s commercial and investment agreements.
- The authors describe Singapore’s approach as tertiary hedging.
- The paper says a rules-based economic order is central to Singapore’s prosperity and survival.
- The abstract does not report specific limitations.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- Singapore frames Latin America as a trade-friendly partner
- Authors:
- Fabricio A. Fonseca
- Institutions:
- National Chengchi University
- Publication date:
- 2026-03-30
- OpenAlex record:
- View
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