APEC Summit in Peru: U.S. and China Battle for Influence in Latin America

High-Stakes Talks at APEC in Peru

This week, leaders from 21 countries have gathered in Lima, Peru, for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit. Representing about 60% of the world’s economic power, APEC has become a crucial platform for global issues. U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping will meet face-to-face in a high-stakes effort to expand their countries’ influence in Latin America. With the summit underway, the two superpowers are presenting competing visions for the region’s future.

U.S. Seeks to Reconnect with Latin America

For the United States, Latin America has always been a key partner. Biden’s visit is part of his administration’s ongoing effort to restore the United States’ influence in a region that has historically seen American involvement. This trip, marking Biden’s second visit to Latin America. The visit comes at a time when the United States’ role in the region is being challenged. Many leaders and citizens in Latin America feel that the United States has turned its attention elsewhere in recent years, and they are now looking for reliable partners. Biden’s plan, the Americas Partnership for Economic Prosperity (APEP), aims to address this concern. He is promising a focus on economic growth, job creation, and closer trade ties. Unlike China’s projects, which are visible and under construction, APEP remains more of a proposal than a reality.

China’s Growing Footprint in Latin America

While the United States has maintained diplomatic ties in Latin America for decades, China has recently made waves with its economic strategy. Chinese investments in infrastructure projects, manufacturing, and mining have captured the region’s attention. President Xi Jinping’s trip to Peru is a clear sign that China aims to secure its foothold. A prime example is the Chancay port project in Peru. China’s state-owned company COSCO has invested $3.5 billion in the project. By making it one of the largest Chinese-led developments in Latin America. This port, once completed, will enhance Peru’s trade capabilities by connecting it directly with Asian markets.

The Chancay Port Project: A Big Win for China

The Chancay port project represents China’s commitment to infrastructure in Latin America. For Peru, the port promises economic benefits. The project is expected to create many jobs and help the country transport its goods more easily. Many Peruvians view the port as an opportunity for long-term growth. However, U.S. analysts express concerns about COSCO’s exclusive control over the port. With China in charge of operations, some worry about possible security risks. They argue that having a Chinese company managing a major port could allow China to monitor activities in the region.

Comparing Economic Strategies: China’s Belt and Road vs. U.S. Initiatives

China’s presence in Latin America goes beyond individual projects like the Chancay port. Its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a global strategy. It involves funding infrastructure projects in various countries. The BRI has already attracted several Latin American countries who want to join this network. With China providing direct financial support, its projects often materialise faster than U.S.-led initiatives. In contrast, the Biden administration’s APEP plan, while promising, has yet to gain similar traction. The U.S. offers some infrastructure support, such as funding for a port in Ecuador through the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC). But these U.S projects do not match China’s massive investments.

Role of APEC in Shaping Latin America’s Future

The APEC Summit has become a stage for U.S. and Chinese leaders to communicate their plans for Latin America. Each leader’s message reflects a different approach. China’s strategy focuses on immediate investment and fast-moving infrastructure projects. These deals bring visible benefits that resonate with Latin American leaders seeking rapid development. The U.S. is focusing on long-term partnerships, democratic values, and sustainable growth. But this slower, gradual approach may seem less appealing to Latin American countries that need swift economic boosts.

Latin America’s Dilemma: Choosing Between U.S. and China

Latin American countries now face a strategic choice. China’s quick investments promise simpler trade with Asia, more jobs, and infrastructure. The United States, meanwhile, offers stability and long-standing alliances. Leaders across Latin America must decide which partnership best aligns with their nation’s interests. Some countries may welcome China’s infrastructure while valuing the U.S. as a political ally. Others may tilt more strongly towards one superpower based on economic needs or historical ties. The appeal of China’s Belt and Road Initiative is hard to ignore.

The U.S. Faces Pressure to Adapt

As Biden’s term nears its end, U.S. policymakers are discussing how to strengthen their position in Latin America. Some suggest the U.S. needs to speed up its projects to match China’s influence. Others believe the United States should focus on technology, education, and healthcare partnerships instead of competing directly on infrastructure. The current administration is also thinking about how to maintain influence beyond Biden’s presidency. Some advisors believe America needs a fresh approach that combines economic support with more concrete results.

What’s Next for APEC

The APEC Summit in Peru is just one chapter in a larger story about Latin America’s evolving relationships. China’s growing presence in the region indicates a shift in global dynamics. Latin America is becoming a new arena where global powers compete, each hoping to shape the region’s future. With both the United States and China vying for influence. Latin American countries find themselves at a crossroads. They must weigh the benefits of economic ties with each superpower carefully.

The outcome of the APEC Summit will reveal which direction Latin America may lean. As China deepens its financial commitments, the U.S. faces the challenge of meeting Latin American countries’ demands. In the end, the region’s leaders will play a decisive role. By choosing partnerships that bring the most advantages to their people. This power struggle in Latin America could redefine the future of trade, security, and growth across the hemisphere.