Economic Influence in Latin America Isn't All About Trade

Over the past decade, increased trade with China has helped fuel Latin America's economic growth. The country's demand for commodities has made Beijing the main trade partner of some of Latin America's biggest economies, including Brazil, Chile and Peru. China's growing presence in the region, particularly in South America, has raised alarms in Washington, which historically has considered Latin America its backyard. But to look at international trade alone would be to misrepresent the situation. When trying to understand Latin America's complex economic structures and international relations, foreign direct investment (FDI) is one of the most important indicators to consider....