Story perspectives

New Upscale 'Chino' Marks China's Growing Influence in Argentina

2/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

In Buenos Aires, 'chino' denotes mini-markets run by Chinese migrants from Fujian and Guangdong.
These shops, known for late hours, are integral to urban life.
A new upscale chino opened in Palermo, signaling China's growing presence in Argentina.
China is Argentina's second-largest trading partner, trading manufactured goods for soybeans and beef.
Argentines view Chinese people as nice, hardworking, and reliable, though many say, "We don’t really know them."

1 of 1

Story summary

In Buenos Aires, 'chino' denotes mini-markets run by Chinese migrants from Fujian and Guangdong.
These shops, known for late hours, are integral to urban life.
A new upscale chino opened in Palermo, signaling China's growing presence in Argentina.
China is Argentina's second-largest trading partner, trading manufactured goods for soybeans and beef.
Argentines view Chinese people as nice, hardworking, and reliable, though many say, "We don’t really know them."