As the Asia-Pacific Commerce and Industry Confederation (APCIC), we are pleased to provide our members with a comprehensive investment and trade guide to the United States. This report explores the U.S. economic landscape, key industries, trade policies, taxation framework, and strategic recommendations to assist APCIC members in navigating opportunities in the world’s largest economy.
1. Panorama económico
The United States, with a GDP of approximately $26 trillion in 2023, is the largest economy globally, contributing about 25% of global GDP. The nation’s diversified economy, robust consumer market, and stable political environment make it a prime destination for trade and investment.
Principais indicadores económicos:
- crescimento do PIB: 2.1% in 2023, reflecting resilience in the face of global uncertainties.
- População: Approximately 334 million, with high consumer purchasing power.
- Taxa de inflação: Declined to 3.2% in late 2023, reflecting effective monetary policy.
2. Principais sectores de atividade
The U.S. economy is driven by a variety of high-value and innovative industries:
- Tecnologia: Home to global tech giants and startups, the U.S. leads in software, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology.
- Energia: The largest producer of oil and natural gas, with growing investments in renewable energy.
- Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals: A leader in medical research, innovation, and biotech, with the healthcare sector contributing over 17% of GDP.
- Agricultura: A major exporter of grains, meat, and processed foods, benefiting from advanced farming techniques.
- Finance and Banking: The financial sector is a global leader, offering a comprehensive range of services from banking to asset management.
3. Políticas comerciais
The U.S. trade policy is shaped by its commitment to free trade and strategic economic interests:
- Acordos de comércio livre (ACL): Active agreements include the USMCA (with Canada and Mexico) and bilateral deals with countries like South Korea and Australia.
- Tariff and Trade Regulations: Tariffs vary widely across sectors, with certain protective measures for steel, aluminum, and critical technologies.
- Customs and Border Protection (CBP): Enforces efficient yet stringent import/export controls to ensure compliance with U.S. laws.
4. Enquadramento fiscal
The U.S. tax system is business-friendly, offering numerous incentives for domestic and foreign investors:
- Imposto sobre as sociedades: The federal corporate tax rate is 21%, with state taxes ranging from 0% to 12%.
- Imposto sobre o Valor Acrescentado (IVA): The U.S. does not impose VAT but relies on state-level sales taxes, which range from 0% to 10%.
- Imposto sobre o rendimento das pessoas singulares: Progressive federal rates range from 10% to 37%, with additional state income taxes in most states.
- Incentivos ao investimento: Tax credits and grants are available for sectors like renewable energy, R&D, and manufacturing.
5. Clima de investimento
The United States offers a dynamic and secure environment for investment, characterized by:
- Ecossistema de inovação: World-class universities, research institutions, and tech clusters drive innovation.
- Infra-estruturas: Extensive transportation, digital, and energy networks support seamless operations.
- Legal Framework: Strong intellectual property protection and contract enforcement ensure a reliable business environment.
- Mão de obra qualificada: A highly educated and diverse labor force supports various industries.
6. Recomendações estratégicas
For APCIC members seeking opportunities in the U.S.:
- Focus on Innovation Hubs: Establish operations in regions like Silicon Valley, Austin, or Boston for access to talent and cutting-edge technology.
- Invest in Clean Energy: Explore projects in solar, wind, and battery technologies, aligning with the U.S.’s push for sustainability.
- Leverage E-commerce: Tap into the vast online retail market, driven by platforms like Amazon, Walmart, and Shopify.
- Expand in Healthcare: Consider investments in medical devices, pharmaceuticals, or telemedicine, sectors with significant growth potential.
- Navigate Regulatory Frameworks: Engage legal and regulatory experts to ensure compliance with federal and state laws.
Conclusão
The United States remains a premier destination for trade and investment, offering unparalleled market access, innovation, and stability. APCIC members are encouraged to leverage this guide to capitalize on opportunities and navigate the complexities of this dynamic market.
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