Peru’s new Chancay port, a sprawling infrastructure project backed by China, is set to become a pivotal hub for trade between South America and Asia. Operated by Hong Kong-based Cosco Shipping, the port will begin limited operations next month, gradually ramping up to facilitate regular trans-Pacific cargo shipments.
Soft Launch with Direct Routes to Shanghai
Carlos Tejada, general manager of Cosco Shipping Chancay Peru, announced that the port will initiate its “test conditioning” phase in late November, running until May. During this phase, Chancay will begin handling actual cargo with two direct container ships per week to Shanghai.
“While this is just the beginning, Chancay’s potential will expand based on demand, possibly adding other Asian markets to its routes,” Tejada said during a Peruvian-Chinese business forum.
Regional Integration and Capacity Expansion
Chancay aims to become the gateway for goods from neighboring countries, with cabotage routes planned from Colombia, Ecuador, and Chile. These smaller shipments will consolidate at Chancay and be transported to Asia on vessels initially carrying up to 14,000 containers, with future plans to increase capacity to 24,000 containers.
The project is owned and operated by Cosco Shipping Ports, holding a 60% stake, with the remaining 40% owned by Volcan Compañía Minera, a Peruvian mining company controlled by Glencore.
A Strategic Shift in Global Trade
Once fully operational, Chancay is expected to reshape trade dynamics in the region by streamlining South America’s access to Asian markets. The port’s strategic location, combined with its ambitious capacity, could establish it as a major transshipment hub and a competitor to larger ports along the Pacific coast.
With China’s involvement, Chancay not only reflects growing economic ties between South America and Asia but also underscores Beijing’s expanding influence in global infrastructure and trade.
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