Peru to align with U.S. under Fujimori presidency, China remains key trade partner

Keiko Fujimori's ascent to the presidency of Peru signals a significant geopolitical shift, aligning the Andean nation with Latin America's right-wing political movement and fostering closer ties with the United States under a potential Donald Trump administration. This alignment comes as China solidifies its position as Peru's primary trading partner, with the strategic Chancay port serving as a key node in its expanding influence across South America.

Despite Trump not publicly endorsing Fujimori during her campaign, she has expressed a strong interest in joining the "Shield of the Americas." This initiative, championed by Trump, aims to forge a continental alliance against transnational organized crime. Several regional leaders, including Javier Milei of Argentina, Rodrigo Paz of Bolivia, José Antonio Kast of Chile, Daniel Noboa of Ecuador, and Santiago Peña of Paraguay, are expected to attend Fujimori's inauguration on July 28, Peru's Independence Day, underscoring the growing right-wing bloc.

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She has expressed interest in Peru joining the 'Shield of the Americas,' an initiative promoted by the US president to create an alliance in the continent against transnational organized crime.

Fujimori's presidency may also reshape Peru's relationships with neighboring countries. While relations with Colombia are expected to normalize, those with Mexico, strained due to differing stances on former President Pedro Castillo, present a more complex challenge. The situation with Venezuela, where Peru announced the resumption of bilateral relations, adds another layer to the evolving regional dynamics.

However, Fujimori's pivot towards the U.S. orbit could potentially impact Peru's robust commercial ties with China. The Chancay port project, a $1.3 billion investment by Chinese state-owned company Cosco, represents a critical strategic asset for Beijing. Cosco's decision on whether to proceed with the second phase of the project, requiring a similar investment, will be closely watched.

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The most profound approach to the US orbit that Fujimori intends could affect commercial ties with China, its main commercial partner.