Turning points in the economic development of South-American countries
Growth rates of the South-American economies are assessed against the world economy growth rate. Turning points in economic development are identified based on the catastrophe theory approach, namely, by evaluating variances in the rates of economic growth. Turning points of economic growth are identified for the world economy and also for Brazil, Venezuela, Colombia and Chile. The said countries have grown faster than the world economy: Chile, Colombia and Venezuela have demonstrated the 4,5–5,5% growth rate, and Brazil – 3%. In terms of growth sustainability the said four countries could be ranged as follows (in descending order): Colombia, Brazil, Chile, Venezuela. All the four could be prospective business and trading partners. In terms of economic growth rates and sustainability or growth the most promising partners are Colombia and Brazil, followed by Chile and Venezuela as slightly less promising partners