From Chancay to Shanghai, this popular expression in Peru has finally become a reality. The opening of the Chancay port in Peru is providing more business opportunities for Peruvian entrepreneurs. Chen Tong travels with her alpaca from Shanghai to Chancay to find out more.
This is me and my alpaca. After more than a 30 hour trip from Beijing, we've finally arrived in Lima. The name of my alpaca is "Chanhai." It's not a common name, but let me explain.
One week ago, at the China International Import Expo in Shanghai, I met with two ladies who travelled all the way from Peru to China.
"It's my third time."
"It's my first time. I'm glad to be here."
They are bringing their lovely and healing alpaca plush toys to the show.
"It's much more smiley and bigger."
China is their prominent market.
"China is always the biggest."
"It's always good to see the market."
"Are sales growing over the past years?"
"Oh yes. The sales are growing a lot though the year."
But there is a problem – the transportation time.
"It takes too long. It's around 60 days from Lima. We need our products to be here right now."
It's not a problem any more. The Chancay Port, which was constructed by a Chinese company, will make things easier.
"Have it as a present."
We travelled to Peru for the grand opening of the Chancay Port. And that's how my alpaca and I ended up here.
At the opening ceremony of the port, I met Ysabel again.
"The port has opened. How do you feel so far?"
"I feel very happy. I have a lot of hopes."
Let me tell you in this way.
In the past, my alpaca and I need to make a transfer in Hong Kong and then go to Peru, taking more than two months or even longer.
But the Chancay Port allows a direct transit between Chancay and Shanghai – that means only 35 days now.
"It means future. It means works for more artisans in Peru. It means opportunities, more income for families, better education for sons and daughters. It means just hope."
"By the way, I gave her a name. It's called Chanhai."
"Oh, great."
"It's an expression 'From Chancay to Shanghai.'"
Now, "From Chancay to Shanghai," this expression has become a reality.