Amid global shifts, China and Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) countries are forging stronger ties, offering certainty and opportunities for mutual growth.
In July 2014, Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Brazil, Argentina, Venezuela, and Cuba, laying the foundation for a comprehensive cooperative partnership between China and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC). This collaboration led to the establishment of the China-CELAC Forum, marking a new stage in cooperation.
The partnership has yielded remarkable results. China has become one of the largest trading partners for many Latin American countries. Bilateral trade between China and Latin America increased from around $236 billion in 2015 to over $500 billion in 2024, according to the General Administration of Customs of China.
The complementarity of their economies is the cornerstone of this deepening partnership. China’s need for raw materials—including energy, minerals, and agricultural products—aligns with the resources offered by Latin American nations like Brazil, Chile, Peru, and Argentina. In return, China exports manufactured goods, capital, and technology—resources that LAC countries need for development.
Unlike previous foreign policies that treated Latin America as a sphere of influence, China’s approach emphasizes mutual support and cooperation without geopolitical calculations. This message resonates with Latin American countries seeking greater autonomy and balanced international relationships.
The global landscape is changing, with economic uncertainties and shifting political dynamics. As traditional powers reassess their roles, the partnership between China and Latin America offers stability and mutual benefits. This collaboration presents an opportunity to reshape international relations based on equality and cooperation.
The upcoming fourth ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC Forum marks a milestone in this partnership. It’s a chance to reaffirm their commitment to mutual growth and to address global challenges together.
