The business sector was a relatively weak interest group and
generally supported the government. The local business community
was quite small, reflecting both the country's low level of
industrialization and the presence of many foreign-owned
financial institutions and agro-processing firms. Although local
businessmen traditionally supported the Liberal Party, the
political and monetary stability of the Stronato appealed to
business leaders and made them cooperate closely with the
Colorado Party and the government. Furthermore, businesses that
strongly supported the government accrued considerable financial
benefits, whereas those who were uncooperative placed their
businesses in jeopardy. In an effort to increase its influence
over the business sector, the government encouraged the
formation of associations of businessmen and industrialists. The
two leading business associations--the Federation of Production,
Industry, and Commerce (Federación de la Producción, la
Industria, y el Comercio--Feprinco) and the