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New Peru government vows to apply Hong Kong trade deal, but is silent on mainland China
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Teresa Elena Frontadoin WashingtonandIgor Patrickin Rio de JaneiroPublished: 5:08am, 21 Aug 2026Updated: 5:20am, 21 Aug 2026Peru’s new government has pledged to bring its free-trade agreement with Hong Kong into force this year as part of an effort to position the country as a commercial bridge between South America and the Asia-Pacific, even as its first comprehensive policy programme made no direct mention of mainland China or the Chinese-operated Chancay megaport.
Prime Minister Luis Galarreta told lawmakers on Thursday that commercial openness would remain a state policy under Peruvian President Keiko Fujimori’s administration.
“During 2026, we will promote the entry into force of the free-trade agreement with Hong Kong, advance new agreements and promote regional exports,” Galarreta said in an address outlining the government’s priorities before the Chamber of Deputies.
“The long-term goal is for Peru to consolidate its position as a platform for trade, investment and services between South America and the Asia-Pacific, maintaining our participation in Apec and other economic blocs.”
08:02Uncertainty surrounds Peru’s new Chinese-built Chancay megaport
The commitment was the only explicit reference to Hong Kong in Galarreta’s 18-page address, which focused heavily on domestic security, economic growth, infrastructure, mining investment and government reform.
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