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With a background as a past professor and researcher at Harvard University, Dr. Jorge I. Dominguez has long focused on the economics and policies of Latin America. Maintaining a close watch on current trends, Dr. Jorge I. Dominguez has a strong interest in the region’s changing relationship with China.
As highlighted in a recent U.S. News and World Report article, China’s presence across Latin America has witnessed a rapid expansion over the past two decades, with annual trade growing from $12 billion to more than $300 billion. A shift has also occurred in which China is not simply seeking raw materials across the region, but taking an active role in infrastructure and other investment projects.
This reflects a reality in which Chinese money comes without often onerous IMF and World Bank restrictions, as well as a diminishing US presence throughout the region. This has accelerated with the current US administration, which is perceived as being most interested in working to build walls and trade barriers, while reducing foreign aid. China has deftly stepped in to fill this leadership vacuum.
As highlighted in a recent U.S. News and World Report article, China’s presence across Latin America has witnessed a rapid expansion over the past two decades, with annual trade growing from $12 billion to more than $300 billion. A shift has also occurred in which China is not simply seeking raw materials across the region, but taking an active role in infrastructure and other investment projects.
This reflects a reality in which Chinese money comes without often onerous IMF and World Bank restrictions, as well as a diminishing US presence throughout the region. This has accelerated with the current US administration, which is perceived as being most interested in working to build walls and trade barriers, while reducing foreign aid. China has deftly stepped in to fill this leadership vacuum.