The recent Peru-China Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) meeting held in Lima ahead of the APEC Summit scheduled for November 13-15 marked a milestone in bilateral relations, with both nations laying out ambitious plans to expand economic and technological collaboration. The gathering, which took place on November 8, drew over a hundred officials, business leaders, and academics from both countries, discussing a wide range of opportunities to deepen cooperation under the BRI framework.

Peru’s Minister of Agrarian Development and Irrigation, Ángel Manuel Manero Campos, pointed out the potential for a “technological revolution” in Peru with China’s support, citing investments in germplasm improvement, bioplastics, and animal feed. These innovations could enhance Peru’s agricultural output and increase export capacity, further strengthening the country’s agricultural sector. Manero Campos suggested that Chinese technology and expertise could transform Peruvian industries and bring tangible improvements to people’s lives.

Victor Arroyo, Peru’s Director General of Policies and Regulation in Multimodal Transport, highlighted how the BRI’s landmark Chancay Port project, set to be inaugurated on November 14, exemplifies the impact of such collaboration. The port, strategically located to enhance Peru’s logistics network, is a gateway for improved trade with Asia, opening Peru to broader economic engagement with the region and the world. Arroyo also noted that projects in artificial intelligence and electric vehicles, supported by China, represent a promising future for Peru’s transportation and infrastructure sectors.

These modern exchanges build on a long history of ties between Peru and China, which date back to the 19th century, when Chinese immigrants settled across Peru and influenced its culture and economy. This historical connection has evolved into a strong economic partnership, with Beijing emerging as Peru’s top trading partner in recent years.

Adding to the discussions, Gonzalo Gutierrez Reinel, secretary general of the Andean Community, outlined China’s role as a key export partner for the Andean countries, including Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, and Bolivia. The meeting, he observed, offered a unique platform for exchanging ideas on renewable energy, technological advances, and investment in emerging sectors, creating new avenues for Andean nations to engage with China on various levels.

The event also celebrated the launch for the Spanish-language Belt and Road Portal, providing an accessible resource on BRI developments for Spanish-speaking countries. A new Latin America Liaison Office for the BRI was inaugurated as well, underlining China’s commitment to closer ties with the region.

Meanwhile, the general manager of the Peru-China Chamber of Commerce, Jorge Chain, praised the long-standing trade relationship, noting the benefits brought by the two countries’ Free Trade Agreement, in place since 2009. Chain affirmed that collaboration on projects like Chancay Port demonstrates how practical, mutually beneficial initiatives can build a brighter future for both nations.

The meeting concluded with a shared optimism for continued cooperation, supported by China’s vision for a connected, innovative Asia-Pacific region.