This paper analyzes the weak role of trade in regional South America integration due to the following factors: a) Concentration of de export basket in ten main products; b) Growing preponderance of primary products in the exports basket; c) Imports concentrated in goods with a high technological content and product differentiation; d) High cost for intra –regional trade and, e) Low integration of the productive structure and insufficient diversification of production. To return to the path of development, it is suggested: 1) Recover the IIrsa initiative; 2) Energy transition from hydrocarbons to hydroelectricity; 3) Conceive natural resources as a source of generation of opportunities for technical innovation and the creation of new products and, 4) Develop the process industry based on the endowment of natural resources.