China in South America

China in South America

            China’s unyielding pursuit of natural resources has been ever infringing on the United State’s sphere of influence confirmed by its growing dominance in the global superpower’s “hemispheric backyard”, John Kerry’s unintentionally offensive label for Latin America. The Middle Kingdom’s lust for gold, soy, and oil, all of which South America has plenty, has led China to increase trade 12 fold in the past decade with its newfound partner. With trade in South America now amounting to over $240 billion, China is second only to the United States and the gap is steadily closing.

            China’s prolific growth is characterized by its aggressive investment in industry and infrastructure. With plans to build a 140-mile “dry canal” through Colombia the PRC has begun its courtship with the United States greatest ally in South America. In conjunction with the newly completed industrial port in Brazil, the Columbian railway, connecting the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, would prove a viable alternative to the Panama Canal, once again challenging the United States grip on trade in the region. With China’s power growing by leaps and bounds the West does not seem to have an answer as their influence wavers in countries where their authority was once not only beneficial, but coveted.

Cited:

Mallen, P. (2013, June 28). Latin America Increases Relations With China: What Does That Mean For The US?. International Business Times - International Business News, Financial News, Market News, Politics, Forex, Commodities. Retrieved September 26, 2013, from http://www.ibtimes.com/latin-america-increases-relations-china-what-does-mean-us-1317981

McDonnell, J. (2011, February 14). China in talks to build Colombian rail link to rival Panama Canal | Mail Online. Home | Mail Online. Retrieved September 27, 2013, from http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1356863/China-talks-build-Colombian-rail-link-rival-Panama-Canal.html

Phillips, T. (2010, September 15). Brazil's huge new port highlights China's drive into South America | World news | The Guardian . Latest news, world news, sport and comment from the Guardian | theguardian.com | The Guardian . Retrieved September 27, 2013, from http://www.theguardian.com/world/2010/sep/15/brazil-port-china-drive