In the orbit of Beijing: reconfiguration of the territory by Chinese companies in Peru

Abstract

China has become Peru's main trading partner. Chinese investments are produced in all areas, highlighting extractive activities and mega infrastructure projects. Responding to the neoliberal policies adopted by the various governments from Fujimori, Peru is part of the Chinese orbit. The increase in concessions and projects granted to Chinese companies leads to a reconfiguration of the Peruvian territory with transformations in the road, port, mining and energy sector that responds to a concerted plan. China needs inputs to respond to its own growth and economic interests. Its expansion in Peru clashes with the collective interests of entire populations, forces them to displacement and causes pollution. Resistance to projects is formed, grows, and is maintained. Based on the cases registered in the EJAtlas and others, we will analyse how extractive companies take over the territory, how they prepare the ground for this dispossession, what strategies they adopt to try to make themselves accepted by the communities - Chinese companies appear more discreet - what role does the Peruvian State play, what is the answer of the populations and finally, how the conflict is generated.