Xi Jinping Inaugurates New Chancay Port in Peru

Xi Jinping is visiting Peru today for the inauguration of a massive new port that Chinese officials describe as a game-changer for trade links between Latin America and Asia.

Chancay Port, located on Peru’s Pacific coast about 70 km north of Lima, is a $1.3 billion project primarily funded by COSCO. It stands as a flagship Belt and Road initiative in Latin America.

Once fully developed—with a total investment expected to reach $3.6 billion—Chancay will feature 15 berths with a depth of 17 meters, along with a vast industrial park.

The port aims to extend its reach into the interior of South America, targeting Brazilian shippers by offering a direct Pacific route for exports to Asia. The slogan “From Chancay to Shanghai” has been a frequent highlight in Chinese media coverage recently.

Brazil and Peru are linked by the Southern Interoceanic Highway, which runs through the Brazilian agricultural regions of Acre and Rondônia.

COSCO has announced plans to use feeder vessels to bring cargo from Colombia, Ecuador, and Chile to Chancay, where it will be consolidated for shipment to Asia. Initially, the port will handle vessels carrying up to 14,000 TEU, with capacity eventually increasing to accommodate ships of up to 24,000 TEU.

Xi Jinping’s visit to Peru coincides with his attendance at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit.

Meanwhile, Callao, Peru’s current primary container port, has undergone major upgrades this year, led by its main investors, DP World and APM Terminals.