Since the turn of the century bilateral trade between China and Latin America has increased by more than a factor of ten. In 2000, two-way trade stood at £12.17 billion; by 2019, it had reached $307.94 billion. Coupled with this commercial element of China-Latin America relations is a growing assertiveness in diplomatic and military affairs. Yet Beijing is showing caution in its diplomatic engagement, especially with the more left leaning countries of Venezuela and Ecuador. However, Latin America’s enthusiasm in this regard has taken even the Chinese by surprise.

What are we to make of these shifting dynamics? In this detailed and up-to-the-minute investigation, Chris Alden, author of the critically acclaimed China in Africa, and Alvaro Mendez, leading expert in the international relations of Latin America, look at the interests, strategies and practices of China’s incoming power. What can be learned by comparing Latin America with other developing regions in which China has had significant economic ties and a growing diplomatic stake? Does Beijing’s approach to Latin America really differ, as is often claimed by Chinese leaders, from its approach to Africa? And more broadly, how should we read the curious and uneven decline of both the US and Europe as actors in the region?

There is growing interest, mainly in European political and diplomatic spheres, in China’s relationship with Latin America and this book by Chris Alden and Alvaro Mendez provides an easy-to-read and timely introduction … An essential book for students and the general public alike. * Asian Affairs *
This book offers a comprehensive reflection not only on the current political context but also leads us through the background history that has shaped the present-day dynamics. Undoubtedly, China and Latin America will be an enjoyable read for students, professionals and the general public with an interest in the complex contemporary political issues presented in Alden and Méndez’s study. * LSE *
[A]ddresses topical trends and provides practical, incisive, and clear insights into crucial policy issues that would strongly appeal to a readership of policy makers, economic, media and political analysists, third sector professionals, and the general public. * Global Policy *

Chris Alden is Professor of International Relations, London School of Economics and Political Science, UK and Director of LSE IDEAS. He is the author of China in Africa (2007).

Dr. Álvaro Méndez is the co-director of the Global South Unit at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) and a Senior Associate Fellow at LSE IDEAS. He is an Associate Fellow at the Geneva Centre for Security Policy, as well as an Associate Professor at Fudan University in Shanghai.