Peru’s strategic shift toward China: The European Union’s role in supporting autonomous development

Abstract

Key Takeaways • China’s growing influence in the Global South is driven by an approach that combines economic engagement, infrastructure development and a principle of non-interference, creating a challenge to the Western-led liberal international order. • Peru’s traditional diplomatic posture as a reliable partner of the US in the Andean region has undergone a significant transformation, culminating in a prioritized strategic alignment with Beijing. • This change in diplomatic heading is driven by a stark contrast in external approaches: the US is increasingly viewed as an inconsistent partner prone to protectionism, while China offers tangible infrastructure lending, resource monetization and a shared developing-nation solidarity. • The completion of the mega-port of Chancay serves as a material manifestation of Peru’s redefined geopolitical role, shifting the country's policy focus to become South America's primary logistical gateway to the Asia-Pacific. • Peru’s pivot is driven by pragmatic economic balancing rather than an ideological break with the West, as Lima actively maintains its democratic identity and security ties with the US to preserve its autonomy. • If the EU wishes to counter Chinese systemic consolidation in Latin America, it must move past purely rhetorical commitments and deliver competitive, actionable infrastructure investments through instruments like the Global Gateway. • Frequent socio-environmental conflicts surrounding Chinese projects expose the vulnerabilities of Beijing’s extractive model, creating an opportunity for the EU to differentiate itself through a transparent, values-driven partnership focused on local industrialization and community infrastructure.