A new China-backed megaport in Peru may create whole new trade routes that will bypass North America entirely.

By Alek Buttermann The inauguration of the Chancay Megaport in Peru marks a significant moment for regional trade, with the facility set to become South America’s largest commercial port. Developed by China's state-owned Cosco Shipping,

China has become Latin America's leading partner, under the nose of the United States, which is busy elsewhere. Xi Jinping inaugurated a Chinese-built megaport in Peru, underscoring Beijing’s growing influence in the region — and the looming showdown with the future Trump administration.

Trump adviser Carlos Trujillo said that the incoming administration will likely have to expand its focus beyond Mexico and the Northern Triangle to stem migration.

As the first Latino secretary of state, Sen. Marco Rubio is expected to devote considerable attention to what has long been disparagingly referred to as Washington’s backyard.

Rubio, as the first Latino and Spanish-speaking secretary of state, is expected to devote considerable attention to what has long been referred to, disparagingly, as Washington’s backyard.