On November 14, the much-anticipated Chancay Port in Peru officially commenced operations, marking a significant milestone in the burgeoning partnership between China and Latin America. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Peruvian President Dina Boluarte attended the opening ceremony via video link, underscoring the importance of this strategic project.
Developed under China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) by Chinese companies, the Chancay Port is set to reduce direct shipping times between Peru and Asia. More than just a logistical advantage, the port positions Peru as a new hub in Latin America’s supply chain and a gateway to the Pacific, aligning with the country’s national development goals.
During the event, China and Peru signed several key cooperation agreements, including a protocol on upgrading their bilateral free trade agreement (FTA). Since the original FTA was signed in 2009, China has become Peru’s largest trading partner. By 2023, bilateral trade volume reached approximately $37.69 billion, with China accounting for 40 percent of Peru’s export revenues. The upgraded FTA promises to expand access to competitive products from both nations, promoting mutually beneficial cooperation in emerging sectors.
From Vision to Reality
Peru’s story is emblematic of the deepening cooperation between China and Latin America under the BRI over the past decade. In July 2014, during a meeting in Brasília with leaders from 11 Latin American countries, President Xi proposed building a China-Latin America community with a shared future. This vision has since materialized through numerous projects across the region.
In Suriname, Chinese workers have constructed hybrid microgrid solar power plants, village by village, ending decades of reliance on diesel generators. Residents now enjoy uninterrupted electricity for the first time. In Jamaica, the Chinese-built North-South Highway has linked popular tourist destinations previously separated by the island’s central mountain range, becoming a catalyst for economic growth.
Colombia’s rapidly expanding metropolitan area surrounding Bogotá has also benefited. A light rail project under construction by a Chinese company aims to shorten commutes for those living along its route to just 30 to 40 minutes, transforming daily life for many.
As of September 2023, China has participated in over 200 infrastructure projects across Latin America. These endeavors include constructing thousands of kilometers of roads, railways, and light rails; more than 100 schools, hospitals, and sports facilities; nearly 100 bridges and tunnels; and dozens of airports and ports—creating nearly one million jobs for local communities.
Beyond Infrastructure
China’s engagement with Latin America extends beyond physical infrastructure. By sharing its experience in poverty reduction and development, China focuses on improving people’s well-being as both a foundation and key goal of cooperation. Initiatives include helping Grenada draft national development strategies, co-developing industrial plans with Cuba, and collaborating with El Salvador and Trinidad and Tobago on human resource development.
Agricultural collaboration has also flourished, with China introducing techniques for bamboo and mushroom cultivation, launching agricultural technology programs, and providing support in food aid, disaster reconstruction, and health services. The establishment of the South-South Climate Cooperation Fund has further aided countries like Uruguay and Caribbean island nations in building capacity to respond to climate change.
As markets become increasingly integrated, Latin American agricultural products such as Chilean cherries, Mexican avocados, Ecuadorian shrimp, Nicaraguan beef, and Colombian coffee have found their way into millions of Chinese households, meeting the demand for high-quality and diverse food choices.
Technological cooperation has also yielded remarkable results. China and Brazil have exchanged scientific personnel and jointly developed application scenarios, including civilian regional aircraft and Earth-resource satellites, infusing technology-driven benefits into the well-being of their peoples.
A Shared Future
Step by step, the initiative of building a China-Latin America community with a shared future is transforming from vision into reality. What was once a strategic concept is now embodied in concrete actions, bringing tangible benefits to nations across the region. As China and Latin America continue to work together under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, their partnership promises a prosperous and shared future.
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Why are China and Latin America natural partners with a shared future?
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