Guatemala
AI Agent Legal Status: undefined · Autonomy: none
Legal Framework
Guatemala has minimal digital regulation. The Banguat (Central Bank) has issued warnings about crypto but not enacted specific legislation. No AI regulatory framework. Basic e-commerce and electronic signature provisions exist but are underdeveloped.
Key Laws & Regulations
- ◆Banguat communications on virtual currencies (warnings)
- ◆Ley para el Reconocimiento de las Comunicaciones y Firmas Electrónicas
- ◆Código de Comercio
Business Formation
Sociedad Anónima (SA) is standard. Registration through Registro Mercantil. Bureaucratic process. Limited protections for foreign investors. No digital entity provisions.
Tax Implications
Corporate income tax at 25% (general) or 5-7% (simplified regime on revenue). VAT at 12%. No crypto-specific tax guidance. Limited international tax treaties.
Opportunities
Large and young population creating future market potential. Low operating costs. Growing mobile payment adoption. Proximity to US market.
Highlights
Largest economy in Central America by GDP. Young population with growing internet penetration. Low operating costs.
Risks & Challenges
Minimal regulatory framework for digital innovation. Security and corruption concerns. Limited tech infrastructure. Weak rule of law. Small formal tech ecosystem.