In the bustling heart of Shanghai, a Peruvian delegation’s recent visit has sent ripples through the maritime industry, underscoring the burgeoning ties between China and Peru. The delegation, led by Congress member Jhakeline Katy Ugarte Mamani and senior legislator Esdras Ricardo Medina Minaya, didn’t just tour the city; they dove headfirst into discussions about maritime education, smart port technology, and bilateral cooperation. This isn’t just about shaking hands and exchanging pleasantries; it’s about forging a path forward that could reshape the maritime landscape.
Ugarte, who’s no stranger to Shanghai—this was her second visit—described the city as “a highly intelligent city with rapid technological development.” She didn’t mince words when she said, “Peru seeks stronger bilateral ties with China in education, research, talent cultivation, artificial intelligence and more.” This isn’t just about economic growth; it’s about sustainable development across multiple sectors. Ugarte emphasized that such partnerships would drive economic growth and sustainable development across multiple sectors. “Through collaborative efforts, our nations can achieve mutual success,” she added. This is more than just talk; it’s a call to action.
The visit comes hot on the heels of the launch of Chancay Port, South America’s first smart port and a flagship project under the Belt and Road Initiative. Chinese President Xi Jinping and Peruvian President Dina Boluarte jointly inaugurated the port via video link on Nov 14, 2024, during Xi’s state visit to Peru. The port, located 80 kilometers north of Lima, has already made waves by reducing shipping time between Peru and China from over a month to 23 days, while cutting logistics costs by more than 20 percent. This isn’t just about efficiency; it’s about redefining what’s possible in maritime trade.
Recent data from Shanghai Customs shows that since the establishment of direct shipping routes between Chancay and Shanghai last December, the authority has processed 22,000 metric tons of import and export goods — valued at 610 million yuan ($84.2 million). The bilateral trade with Peru, through Shanghai ports, reached 51.5 billion yuan in 2024, marking a 23 percent year-on-year increase. This isn’t just about numbers; it’s about momentum.
The port’s impact extends beyond maritime trade. Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian noted that the port is expected to generate annual revenues of approximately $4.5 billion for Peru and create over 8,000 jobs. The facility includes wildlife rescue stations and environmental protection measures, and can strengthen Peru’s position as a gateway between Asia and Latin America. “The Chancay Port has opened doors of opportunity not only for Peru but for the entire Latin American region,” Ugarte added. This isn’t just about one port; it’s about a ripple effect that could transform the region.
Shanghai Maritime University (SMU) has been instrumental in the port’s development. Professor Ding Yi and his research team’s digital energy management platform for COSCO Shipping Ports Ltd, the port’s investor, is a testament to this. “Maritime technology and education cooperation not only fulfills the mission of nurturing shipping talent but also bears the important responsibility of connecting the Belt and Road Initiative with Latin American development,” said Song Baoru, Party secretary of the university, during the meeting on Tuesday. This isn’t just about education; it’s about building bridges.
The Peruvian delegates expressed interest in establishing educational partnerships. Medina proposed a collaboration between SMU and Peru’s Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, the country’s oldest public university, as well as the newly established university near Chancay Port. “We hope to send Peruvian students to SMU for various levels of education, from undergraduate to doctoral studies, while also welcoming SMU students to study in Peru,” he said. This isn’t just about exchange programs; it’s about a cultural and intellectual exchange that could shape the future of maritime education.
So, what does this mean for the future of the maritime industry? It’s clear that the Chancay Port is more than just a port; it’s a symbol of what’s possible when nations come together. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision for the future. As the maritime industry continues to evolve, it’s clear that partnerships like these will be crucial in driving progress and shaping the future of maritime trade. The question isn’t whether this will shape the future; it’s how far-reaching the impact will be. Buckle up, because the maritime industry is about to get a whole lot more interesting.
