China–Latin America Economic Relations: Strategic Sectors and Development Challenges

Author：FDDI Release date：2025-10-27 18:57:26Source：

Title

China–Latin America Economic Relations:
Strategic Sectors and Development Challenges

Speaker

Juliana Gonzalez Jauregui

Principal Researcher, Latin American Faculty of Social Sciences (FLACSO); Adjunct Researcher, National Scientific and Technical Research Council (CONICET); Visiting Scholar, Fudan Development Institute

Host

Yiqing Xie

Associate Research Professor, Director of European China Studies, Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences; Adjunct Researcher, Financial Research Center, Fudan Development Institute

Time

15:30-15:00, May 22, 2025

Venue

Room 203, Think Tank Building, Fudan University

Organizer

Fudan Development Institute

Fudan-Latin America University Consortium

Center for Latin American Studies, Fudan University

Department of Spanish Language and Literature, Fudan University

Language

English

Abstract

This lecture examines the recent evolution of China–Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) economic relations within the changing global landscape. It explores how trade, investment, and financing flows have reshaped domestic and regional dynamics.

The analysis highlights the growing centrality of China as a trade partner—now the main export destination for several South American economies—and the concentration of Chinese foreign direct investment and finance in strategic sectors such as energy, mining, and infrastructure. Particular attention is given to China’s increasing involvement in the region’s energy transition, focusing on lithium investments in Argentina and their implications for technology transfer, and sustainable development.

Ultimately, the lecture reflects on the strategic role of Latin American states in managing this evolving relationship to foster productive capacities, technological upgrading, and mutually beneficial cooperation with China.