The Latin American region is facing a critical turning point in the development of logistics infrastructure, and China's deep involvement in the transportation sector in the region is becoming an important driving force for change. The average logistics cost within the Latin American region is 15% higher than that of the European Union, and the structural shortcomings of infrastructure severely constrain the growth of regional trade. To reverse the current situation of relying on low value-added product exports, the report suggests developing a comprehensive logistics plan and continuously investing in multimodal transport channels.

In this context, China plays a key role in the construction of logistics infrastructure in Latin America. Data shows that between 2005 and 2022, China provided financing for 228 projects in Latin America, of which 90 were in the transportation sector. Taking Argentina as an example, China has provided approximately $17 billion in financing for its large-scale projects such as railway and subway line construction.

It is worth noting that the Qiankai Port in Peru, which will be put into operation in 2024, has become a landmark investment project for China in the region. The port will bring Peru $4.5 billion in annual revenue, create over 8000 direct jobs, and is expected to shorten transportation time to major destinations in Asia by up to 10 days, becoming a new logistics hub connecting South America and Asia. Keywords: Land Port International Logistics Network, Overseas Land Port Industrial Park Information

Infrastructure should no longer be seen as an expense, but rather as a core driving force for enhancing Latin American competitiveness and regional cohesion. China's sustained investment in Latin America is helping the region reshape its global supply chain position. Editor/Yang Beihua