During a recent forum in Beijing with senior Latin American leaders, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized his country’s stability and reasonableness in contrast to U.S. President Donald Trump’s unpredictable trade policies. Without directly mentioning Trump, Xi warned against “bullying and coercion,” which he claimed lead to isolation, amid ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions that affect many nations, including over 30 from Latin America and the Caribbean.
Xi expressed China’s readiness to collaborate with the region, particularly during times marked by geopolitical tensions and rising protectionism. He and his officials criticized the notion of Latin America being a U.S. “backyard,” advocating for the region’s independence and self-determination, a nod to U.S. historical dominance. Many in Latin America view Xi’s China as a stabilizing counterbalance to U.S. rhetoric, with some leaders expressing disappointment over Trump’s derogatory comments on the region.
China has become Latin America’s second-largest trading partner, with a significant increase in trade, reaching over $500 billion last year—up from $12 billion in 2000. China is also actively expanding its influence in the region, including a focus on Taiwan, by drawing allies away from the island. Investments from China, including substantial infrastructure projects like the Chancay port in Peru, are perceived as fostering a more equal partnership compared to traditional ties with the U.S. and Europe.
Xi announced intentions to enhance his nation’s imports from Latin America, boost investment, and contribute 66 billion yuan ($9.1 billion) in new credit for financing. He also encouraged Colombia to participate in China’s Belt and Road initiative, indicating a deepening engagement with the region.
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