The uncertainty caused by the trade policy actions undertaken by the Trump administration poses a serious challenge to the world, but particularly to regions that historically relied on the United States both as a commercial and political ally, such as Latin America. The Trump 2.0 regime has levied a baseline 10% tariff on most Latin American countries[1], including those that have a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the US, such as Chile (2003), Peru (2009), Colombia (2012), and Panama (2012). The uncertainty surrounding the permanence of such measure (and the potential for further protectionist actions) will encourage these countries to seek and consolidate more secure trade links with like-minded partners, with more predictable trade policies. Such a shift has already been happening. The US has gradually been losing its relevance as the main trading partner for some Latin American countries, particularly those in the south, with one key actor playing a central part in this story: China. China’s penetration in the South American market over this century has been taking place at different levels. Regarding trade, China has Free Trade Agreements in force with Pacific countries like Chile (2006), Peru (2010) and more recently with Ecuador (May 2024). Trade and [...]