China's Exports to Latin America Surge

China's overall exports surged by 21.8% in January and February of 2026, reaching $656.5 billion. This jump significantly exceeded economists' predictions. The country's trade surplus for the same period hit $213.6 billion. The increase in exports was fueled by strong demand for electronics, especially computer chips, autos and other mechanical and electrical products. Semiconductor exports specifically rose by 66.5% due to a global shortage. While exports to the U.S. declined by 11%, shipments to ASEAN countries jumped 29.4%, to the EU 27.8%, and to Africa 50%. This shift suggests China is diversifying its trade relationships amid geopolitical tensions. China's growing economic influence in Latin America includes commodity acquisitions, strategic mineral extraction, and infrastructure investments. Projects include subway lines and dams, with over 20 Latin American and Caribbean nations joining China's Belt and Road Initiative. Dinant, a Central American CPG company founded in Honduras in 1960, has operations in six countries. They manufacture snacks, cooking oils, processed foods and home care products. Dinant recently invested $150 million in a new snacks plant in Comayagua, Honduras to expand into the U.S. market.