China Makes Economic Inroads in America’s Backyard

Beijing's influence grows in Latin America and the Caribbean

Chinese-chartered merchant ship Cosco Shipping Panama crosses the new Agua Clara Locks during the inauguration of the expansion of the Panama Canal in this undated file photo. China is continuing its push to displace U.S. influence in the region, and already has put parts of the Panama Canal under its control. Rodrigo Arangua/AFP/Getty Images

News Analysis

Through investment, trade, and diplomatic coercion, the Chinese regime is steadily expanding its influence into America’s backyard—Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC).