Abstract This article argues that Houston has emerged as a premier hub for international arbitration involving Latin America due to the convergence of its strong legal framework, pro-arbitration judiciary, and deep economic and cultural ties to the region. Supported by the Texas International Arbitration Act, the Federal Arbitration Act, and consistent jurisprudence from Texas courts and the Fifth Circuit, Houston offers a predictable and enforcement-friendly environment that limits judicial interference and upholds arbitral autonomy. The city’s geographic proximity to Latin America, extensive commercial integration – particularly in the energy sector – and bilingual, bicultural legal community further enhance its appeal. In light of recent judicial reforms in Mexico that may reduce predictability in domestic courts, the article concludes that Houston is uniquely positioned as a neutral, reliable, and strategically advantageous seat for cross-border dispute resolution, solidifying its role as a legal gateway to the Americas.
Rafael T. Boza (2026) studied this question.