Latin America and the Caribbean-China socioeconomic relations: new triangular relationships and the Mexican case in 2025

Abstract The document proposes three concepts—a globalization process with Chinese characteristics, new triangular relationships and security shoring—to discuss the maturity, extension and depth of the socioeconomic relationship between Mexico and China. These concepts may also provide valuable insights for future studies. Drawing on these concepts, the analysis focuses on bilateral institutions and trade, Chinese overseas foreign direct investments (OFDI) in Mexico and infrastructure projects. These examinations allow for detailed understanding of China’s increasing presence in Mexico, as well as its challenges. In the case of bilateral trade, for example, Mexican imports from China have increased significantly throughout the twenty-first century and substituting for US imports; the US is however by far still the most important trading partner of Mexico. The systemic competition and confrontation between the US and China are generating massive challenges in third countries and regions such as Latin America and the Caribbean and Mexico. The chapter concludes with a summary of key findings and insights, followed by a series of proposals.