Peru’s new government has emphasized trade openness and closer ties with the Asia-Pacific but notably avoided mentioning China or the Chancay Port in its first comprehensive policy address. Prime Minister Luis Galarreta said the government would seek to bring the Peru-Hong Kong free trade agreement into effect in 2026, pursue new trade agreements, and position Peru as a trade and investment hub between South America and the Asia-Pacific.
The omission of China is notable because China is Peru’s largest trading partner and a major investor in mining, energy, and infrastructure. Peru exported about $32 billion worth of goods to China last year, while the $1.3 billion Chancay deep-water port, built and operated by Chinese state-owned COSCO Shipping, has become a symbol of Beijing’s growing influence in Latin America and a focus of U.S.-China competition.
The omission does not necessarily signal a major shift in Peru’s China policy. President Keiko Fujimori and Foreign Minister Carlos Espá have emphasized attracting investment and maintaining strong relations with China. It remains unclear whether the government deliberately avoided sensitive China-related issues or simply focused its first policy address on domestic priorities.
Source: Liberty Times (Taiwan), August 21, 2026
https://ec.ltn.com.tw/article/breakingnews/5547601