The rivalry between the US and China is playing out in Latin America, where the world’s two leading powers have been fiercely competing over trade, technology and political influence.
Here are some of the countries most affected by the dispute.
Under US pressure to reduce China’s influence in the region, Panama announced in 2025 that it would withdraw from China’s Belt and Road infrastructure program, and its Supreme Court ruled earlier this year that a Hong Kong company’s concession to operate ports on the Panama Canal was unconstitutional.
Trump has hardened his rhetoric toward BrasĂlia and last year imposed tariffs that were later withdrawn. Following a recent meeting at the White House, Brazilian President Lula da Silva said he told Trump he “needed to take another look at our products,” at a time when China is buying more from the South American country.
Under President Javier Milei, Argentina has strengthened its ties with the US. However, China remains one of the South American country’s main trading partners and Milei has moderated his language toward Beijing.
Mexico, one of the region’s largest economies, has strengthened some ties with China, but its room to maneuver has been limited by the US. Amid US pressure, Mexico announced in December steep tariff increases on imports from China and other countries. China said it had the right to retaliate but announced no countermeasures, and investments there continue.
Before the US captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro on January 3, Beijing had provided political support and strengthened energy ties with Caracas. It used to buy more than half of the crude oil that Venezuela exported but now the oil sector is now largely controlled by the United States and its energy interests.
Read more about the countries affected by the dispute here.