The Port of Chancay: A Gateway for China’s Strategic Interests in Latin America?
The construction of the Chancay port, financed and managed by China, marks a turning point in the logistics infrastructure of Latin America. However, behind this mega-project of USD 3.6 billion, doubts arise about Beijing’s true interests. Is it just a commercial project, or a strategic enclave that could include military purposes?
A megaproject with economic and environmental impact
The port, located 80 kilometers from Lima, promises to revolutionize maritime logistics in the region with the capacity to receive the world’s largest vessels. However, its construction brought about a series of controversies:
- Environmental impact: The demolition of coastal hills and the construction of a tunnel under populated areas caused evacuations and cracks in homes.
- Chinese exclusivity: The state-owned shipping company COSCO obtained a monopoly on essential port services, despite this violating Peruvian law.
The Peruvian Congress quickly modified legislation to validate this monopoly, sparking criticism for the apparent submission to Beijing’s interests.
Commercial or military interests?
COSCO, controlled by the Chinese Communist Party, is obligated to serve national defense needs in case of international conflicts. This raises concerns about the potential military use of the port:
- Deep waters: The port’s characteristics are ideal for warships, raising fears of a possible naval base.
- Concerning precedents: Cases like the Hambantota port in Sri Lanka, also financed by China, where a military ship docked under the pretext of “scientific research,” reinforce these suspicions.
The international perspective
General Laura Richardson, of the US Southern Command, expressed her concerns to the US Congress:
“China is developing dual-use facilities in the region that could facilitate strategic access for the People’s Liberation Army.”
This pattern is not new. China has used similar projects in other countries to secure footholds in key points of global maritime trade.
What lies ahead for Chancay?
Although officially presented as a commercial endeavor, the infrastructure of the Chancay port could serve military purposes, such as surveillance and naval deployment. In a scenario of global tensions, the port’s proximity to Lima and its ability to receive military vessels make it a strategically important point of interest for Beijing.
The Chancay port symbolizes China’s growing influence in Latin America. While it promises economic benefits, concerns about its future use underscore the need for greater oversight and transparency in projects of this magnitude. Will Chancay be a driver for trade or a strategic enclave with hidden agendas? Only time will tell.
