• 82% of Latin American businesses say ESG is critical to operations, according to RSM survey
  • Three out of four companies identify climate change as a priority issue.
  • 45% of clients now require ESG information from their suppliers, firmly establishing sustainability as a critical driver of competitiveness.
  • ESG risk management and corporate governance in Latin America have surged by 55% as strategic priorities between 2024 and 2025, with significant growth anticipated for 2026.

Three quarters of Latin American businesses now identify climate change reporting and management as a strategic priority, states latest RSM survey.  

According to RSM's 2025 ESG Landscape Latam survey, 82% of companies in the region state that advancing the disclosure of their ESG performance is a priority.

The study—based on data from over 250 organisations across 18 countries—confirms a paradigm shift: companies are no longer just reporting but are beginning to integrate sustainability into the core of their strategy and operations. This progress is driven by both strengthened regulations and growing market pressure. The data reveals that Latin American businesses not only respond to new regulations but also strategically position themselves to lead and turn ESG challenges into growth opportunities.

Key ESG priorities for Latin America in 2026

One of the most significant findings of the report is the growth of corporate governance and ESG risk management as strategic priorities, which increased by 55% between 2024 and 2025. The study shows that strengthening governance is what enables the connection between sustainability, decision-making, and the creation of measurable and responsible outcomes.

Additionally, regional regulatory pressure has proven to be an effective driver of climate action. The priority assigned to climate change and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions increased by 16 percentage points compared to 2024, reflecting accelerated alignment with standards such as NCG 461 (Chile), CNBV/NIS (Mexico), and CVM/BCB (Brazil).

Eileen Turkot, RSM's Regional Leader for Latin America, commented: 

"We are witnessing an evolution from the 'why' to the 'how.' Leading organisations in Latin America no longer ask whether they should act but how to do so more quickly and strategically. In our report, RSM confirms that sustainability has shifted from being a complement to becoming a fundamental competitive advantage. Organisations that integrate ESG risk management and leverage technology for better measurement and reporting will not only strengthen their resilience but also generate long-term value."

Market demand for transparency also comes directly from clients. The report highlights that 45% of customers now require ESG information from their suppliers, solidifying brand reputation as a key asset for business success in the region. This trend underscores the need to go beyond compliance, adopting a comprehensive approach that transforms operations.

Paola Piña, Leader of RSM's Regional ESG Hub, added: 

"True progress lies in understanding that quality reporting is the result of a solid strategy, not the ultimate goal. The focus must shift from 'reporting more' to 'transforming better.' Companies that embed sustainability into their DNA will be better positioned to attract investors, customers, and talent. Latin America has a real opportunity to become a global benchmark in sustainable competitiveness."

The report concludes that, while other regions experience setbacks or slowdowns in their climate commitments, Latin America is moving forward with determination, driven by stronger regulatory frameworks, stakeholder pressure, and a strategic vision that recognizes sustainability as an investment in the future.

To download the full report, visit ESG Landscape Latin America 2025