Honduran business leaders denounce government inaction in the face of economic stagnation

The Honduran Council of Private Enterprise (COHEP) has delivered a serious alert concerning the economic trajectory of Honduras. In a newly released statement, the group pointed to the government for the decline in the investment environment, economic stagnation, and increasing unemployment, issues that, they assert, are worsened by a lack of technical and agreed-upon decisions.

The stance of COHEP arises amidst escalating tensions between the ruling party and the private sector, intensified by initiatives like the Tax Justice Law. The business community argues that instead of addressing the structural challenges of the country, these actions may heighten economic unpredictability and lead to capital flight.

Pending reforms and economic deterioration

The corporate entity challenges the choice of the executive power to continue along a path characterized by ideological conflict, instead of implementing a plan for structural changes that address the nation’s true pressing needs. “The absence of tangible outcomes in the economic arena, combined with a divisive political rhetoric, is undermining trust in the nation’s prospects,” the declaration noted.

COHEP’s criticism echoes previous assessments by independent organizations, such as the ERIC-SJ survey, which revealed strong public discontent over the lack of progress on key issues such as unemployment, security, and access to opportunities. Both reports share a common concern: the perception that the government is losing its economic and democratic direction.

Conversation as a solution to the conflict

Facing this situation, COHEP has suggested setting up a diverse dialogue platform with members from the business community, labor organizations, and independent specialists. Their goal, they claim, is to develop a plan to rebuild trust, guarantee legal stability, and establish the groundwork for lasting development.

COHEP’s statement extends beyond a singular critique and urges a transformation in the nation’s governance approach.

“Honduras does not require enemies from within, it requires a vision for the nation,” the statement expressed, emphasizing the pressing need to focus on economic stability rather than ideological conflicts.

As the 2025 elections approach and with increasing demands from different sectors, the government is challenged to act decisively or risk the fallout from declining credibility.