Ahead of the presidential election, Washington is trying to regain a foothold in Peru in the face of Chinese influence.

The United States is intensifying its diplomatic efforts to strengthen its relations with Peru, ahead of an uncertain presidential election that could redefine the geopolitical balance in the region.

This initiative marks a turning point after several years during which China established itself as Lima's main trading partner, particularly in the strategic sectors of mining and infrastructure.

According to officials and economic players, Washington is now seeking to consolidate its presence in this key country, a major copper producer and holder of critical resources essential to the energy transition.

The new US ambassador, Bernie Navarro, is leading this strategy aimed at strengthening economic cooperation, but also ties in defense and access to critical minerals, in a context of increased rivalry with Beijing in South America.

The presidential election, the first round of which is to be held on Sunday, is characterized by significant uncertainty, with more than 30 candidates in the running and no clear frontrunner. This fragmented landscape could offer the United States an opportunity for diplomatic repositioning.

Trade between Peru and China now far exceeds that with the United States, thanks in particular to major projects such as port and mining infrastructure financed by Beijing.

Faced with this dynamic, Washington is attempting to rebalance the relationship, focusing on strengthened economic partnerships and an increased strategic presence.

The issue goes beyond the bilateral framework: it is part of a broader competition between major powers for access to natural resources and political influence in Latin America.

In this context, the outcome of the election could play a decisive role in the future direction of Peru, between consolidating its ties with China or moving closer to the United States.