China-Mexico Ambivalent Relations

Erick Gutierrez Macias

《拉丁美洲經貿季刊》 34期 (2018/09) Pp. 5-26

摘要

The China-Mexico relations have been examined mainly from the economic perspective, especially on trade, diminishing the political scope. This study considers both economic and political angles. The aim of this paper is to find out what are the strengths and limitations of China's economic and political influence in Mexico. After China joined the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2001, the Asian nation has often been portrayed as a ＂competitor＂ in Mexico. However, in 2013 after Chinese President Xi Jinping and Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto elevated the bilateral relations to ＂comprehensive strategic partnership,＂ the perception of China in Mexico has somewhat changed. In light of the recent bilateral developments, to what extent China represents a real strategic partner for Mexico? This study presents a general analysis of the Sino-Mexican political and economic dynamics from 2000 to 2018. The paper is organized as follows: First, a brief general discussion on China- Mexico ties and their approach to the theory of asymmetry. Second, an examination of the political events that have marked the Sino-Mexican relations, and the inconsistencies in their ties during the last eighteen years. Third, how China and Mexico have interacted economically in the same period. Fourth, a succinct evaluation of China's main effects in the U.S.-Mexico under NAFTA since 2001. Finally, some reflections and recommendations for Mexico are presented in this study.

關鍵字

China ； Mexico ； the U.S. ； NAFTA ； China-Mexico relations