Nadia Helmy, Associate Professor of Political Science at Beni Suef University, said that China's growing influence in Latin American ports aims to create new markets and secure resources, drawing more countries into its Belt. This statement was made in a provided analysis.
"China's growing influence in the ports of South and Latin America, known as ‘Washington's backyard,' is China's first and most obvious goal in controlling Latin American ports," said Helmy. "This is to create more markets for its products and companies, given that Latin America represents a huge consumer market for China, with a population of more than 700 million. China seeks to obtain natural resources at the best possible price and with a steady flow of goods from South American ports. China has succeeded in convincing more than 21 countries in South America to join the Belt and Road Initiative and seize control of the ports of most of these countries, particularly the Panama Canal, which is considered a backyard for American interests in confronting China."
China's role in Latin America has expanded rapidly through increased trade, investment, and diplomatic ties. According to the Council on Foreign Relations, Beijing's involvement now encompasses energy, infrastructure, mining, and technology sectors. Since 2017, over twenty countries have joined the Belt and Road Initiative. China has become the largest trading partner for several Latin American nations. These developments are altering the region's economic and geopolitical dynamics, marking a significant shift in Latin America's global relationships.
The Financial Times reports that world steel production reached 343.7 million metric tons in early 2024, with China contributing more than half of this output. As China's steel exports have outpaced domestic demand, Latin American markets have become destinations for the surplus. In response, local industries have called for new tariffs and stricter trade rules. This scenario highlights the tension between economic gains and the need for trade protection as the region faces complex choices balancing opportunity and market defense.
According to NOAA Fisheries, the U.S. seafood industry is a major economic driver employing approximately 1.2 million people and generating more than $60 billion in annual sales across commercial fishing, seafood processing, and retail sectors spread across key coastal states. The influx of seafood routed indirectly from China through countries like Chile threatens this industry by creating unfair competition and complicating traceability and food safety efforts.
Dr. Nadia Helmy earned her PhD in Chinese politics and was recognized as Egypt’s youngest recipient of this degree at age 27. She leads the South and East Asia Studies Unit at Beni Suef University and has served as a visiting senior researcher at Lund University in Sweden. Her expertise spans Chinese politics, Middle Eastern affairs, and international relations. Helmy is a frequent commentator on global media platforms.