China’s Latin America strategy goes well beyond Venezuela and Panama

South China Morning PostEN 2 min read 100% complete by Winston MokFebruary 24, 2026 at 09:30 AM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

In early 2026, China's economic strategy in Latin America faces potential shifts due to US actions and internal complications. The US abduction of Venezuela's president and attempts to control Venezuelan oil, coupled with Panama's ruling against Chinese port concessions, create uncertainty for China's investments. Despite these challenges, Latin America remains crucial to China's global trade and investment. In 2024, trade reached $518.5 billion, exceeding trade with Africa. China's direct investment in Latin America was also significant, surpassing investment in Africa by four times in 2024. Although Venezuela is a trade partner, it only represents a small portion of China's overall Latin American trade portfolio.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Africa ×235% Southeast Asia ×340% CK Hutchison 40% Panama 50% Nicolás Maduro 60% Venezuela ×470% Donald Trump 70% United States ×475% Latin America ×985% China ×1290%

Keywords

china latin america relations 90% trade and investment 80% economic relationships 70% venezuela 70% us policy 60% foreign direct investment 60% china trade 60% panama 50% global south 50%