On November 5th, 2024, the Peruvian capital of Lima became a vibrant centre for business, culture, and opportunity as the "Opportunities China · Brand Chongqing" promotion event unfolded at the China-Peru Friendship Center. Initially expecting around 65 attendees, this grand event saw an overwhelming turnout of over 200 individuals, all eager to explore the opportunities that Chongqing—China's western powerhouse—has to offer. The event highlighted Chongqing's thriving industries and sought to strengthen ties with Peru and Latin America, positioning the city as a critical player in the region's economic future.
The promotion featured six significant aspects of Chongqing's growth: the city's innovative manufacturing ("Made in Chongqing"), educational opportunities ("Study in Chongqing"), investment potential ("Invest in Chongqing"), and cultural heritage ("The Beauty of Chongqing"), among others. These themes were showcased through various engaging activities, including a Chongqing city photo exhibition, tastings of Chongqing's renowned spicy noodles, and presentations on Chongqing's industrial strength. However, the unique cultural exchange that brought together Chinese and Peruvian traditions left the most lasting impression.
Chongqing's Economic Growth and Peruvian Opportunities
Chongqing is one of China's fastest-growing municipalities, with robust industries spanning from manufacturing and automotive to technology and tourism. One of the event's highlights was the promotion of Chongqing-based Changan Automobile, a company that has experienced significant growth in Peru. According to Erik Mitsuo, the general manager of Changan's Peru branch, the company saw a remarkable 6153 units sold from January to September 2024, making it the top-performing Chinese brand in the Peruvian market. Changan's growth trajectory and success in Peru signal the tremendous opportunities that Chinese companies, mainly from Chongqing, have to expand in Latin America.
Chongqing's role as a key player in global automotive production is just one part of the city's diverse industrial portfolio. The region is also known for its production of high-quality hardware, including tools and construction materials, with products from the Dazu District being widely popular. Liu Qingqing (刘青青), the Deputy Minister of the Publicity Department of Chongqing's Dazu District, gave a special presentation on the region's famous Dazu Stone Carvings. These UNESCO-listed masterpieces, which date back to the Tang Dynasty (9th century), are regarded as one of China's most significant artistic achievements in stone sculpture. Liu's presentation aimed to raise awareness of the sculptures' historical and cultural significance, inviting Peruvians to explore the art and heritage of the region.
Liu also highlighted the growth of Dazu's hardware industry, which has expanded from everyday consumer goods to more specialized sectors like construction and industrial tools. With over 200 varieties of products exported worldwide, Liu expressed hopes that these high-quality products would find a strong market in Peru, improving everyday life and supporting Peru's ongoing industrialization.
From Machu Picchu to Dazu
The promotion event wasn't just about business—it was a cultural exchange in its most accurate form. With its rich history and incredible archaeological sites like Machu Picchu, Peru is no stranger to tourism and cultural promotion. However, the introduction of Chongqing's own rich cultural heritage, including its vibrant food culture and iconic landmarks, created a unique blend of Chinese and Peruvian cultures. High-profile scholar and renowned sinologist Joseph Cruz Soriano (Professor Gao Wangmin (高旺民)) gave a heartfelt greeting in the Chongqing dialect, sparking an immediate connection with the attendees and emphasizing the deepening ties between the two nations.
Professor Gao, who has visited China numerous times and has a deep appreciation for Sichuan cuisine, remarked on Chongqing's unique industrial strengths. While Peru has adopted many aspects of Sichuan cuisine, it is Chongqing's robust industrial power that truly sets the city apart. This comment highlighted the cultural exchange and the economic opportunities that could emerge from the collaboration between these two cities, which are at the crossroads of tradition and modernity.
In a symbolic gesture of cultural diplomacy, Liu Qingqing encouraged Peruvians to make the journey from Machu Picchu to Dazu, making it a new cultural slogan for Sino-Peruvian relations. "We hope that through this event, we can bring more Peruvians to Dazu, to learn about our culture, enjoy our landscapes, and ultimately build deeper ties of friendship and mutual respect," she said. This statement encapsulated the essence of the event: a celebration of cultural exchange and an invitation for Peruvians to explore the heart of China's industrial and cultural landscape.
Chongqing's Vision for the Future
The business potential between China and Peru is vast, and the promotion of Chongqing's industries is just the beginning. Zhang Guai (张乖), Executive Vice President of the Peru-Sichuan Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of building lasting commercial relationships, noting that Peru is an ideal market for Chongqing's products. The region's favourable trade policies, skilled workforce, and growing middle class provide an excellent environment for Chinese companies to expand. Zhang's vision for the future involved fostering deeper business connections between Chongqing and Peru, with a focus on collaborative projects and investment initiatives that could benefit both sides.
The event concluded with significant milestones for Sino-Peruvian cooperation. The Chongqing Municipal Publicity Department awarded Classic Media China International Ltd. a plaque, establishing it as the "First Eye Liaison Station." Additionally, the Western International Communication Center signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Chinese Headline Peru, signalling the start of an exciting new chapter in media and cultural exchange between China and Peru.
This event in Lima was not just about showcasing products and industries—it was about building lasting relationships. As both countries continue to strengthen their ties, the cultural and economic connections between Chongqing and Peru will undoubtedly continue to grow, creating a new pathway for mutual benefit in the 21st century.
For many Peruvians, "From Machu Picchu to Dazu" will become more than just a slogan—it will symbolize a future of shared opportunities, rich cultural exchange, and a thriving partnership between two great civilizations.
