While the U.S. Border Patrol has arrested tens of thousands of Chinese at the U.S.-Mexico border over the past year, a growing number of Chinese are making Mexico their final destination. They’re drawn by opportunities for business, freedom, and better financial prospects in a country with a growing economy and improving relations with China.
A Young Entrepreneur’s Dream
Li Daijing, a 30-year-old woman from Chengdu, left her well-paying tech job to help run a restaurant in Mexico City last year. She dreams of starting an online business importing furniture from China and becoming a strong, independent woman.
“I want more,” Li said. “I want to be free.”
Mexico’s Attractiveness
Li is among a new wave of Chinese migrants who are leaving their country in search of opportunities and freedom at a time when China’s economy has slowed and youth unemployment rates remain high. Mexico’s proximity to the U.S., its growing economy, and the presence of Chinese multinationals have made it an attractive destination.
A Deep-Rooted Diaspora
Mexico has long been home to a large and vibrant Chinese community, with many generations of immigrants arriving from southern China’s Guangdong province. However, the new arrivals are more likely to come from all over China, attracted by the country’s economic opportunities and cultural diversity.
A Growing Community in Mexico City
The city’s Viaducto-Piedad neighborhood has become a hub for Chinese migrants, with many opening businesses, creating community spaces, and developing public schools. Monica Cinco, a specialist on Chinese migration, notes that the area is recognized by the Chinese themselves as Mexico City’s true “Chinatown.”
Tensions with Local Businesses
However, not all locals are welcoming of the growing presence of Chinese-owned enterprises in downtown Mexico City. Some have complained about the displacement of local businesses and residents.
A New Generation of Chinese Entrepreneurs
Despite these challenges, a new generation of Chinese entrepreneurs is emerging in Mexico. Duan Fan, owner of “Nueve y media,” a restaurant serving Sichuan cuisine, notes that many Chinese are starting to come to Mexico two years ago – and they need food.
A New Life in Mexico
Dong Shengli, a 33-year-old immigrant from Beijing, has found work with a wholesaler importing knockoff designer sneakers and clothing. He plans to explore business possibilities in Mexico but still has family ties in China.
Leaving China for Freedom
Tan, a 50-year-old immigrant from Guangdong, arrived in Mexico this year seeking greater freedoms. He chafed under what he described as a repressive atmosphere in China, where the political regression and retreat of freedom and democracy made life painful.
A Land of Opportunity
Li Daijing says that Mexico stands out as a land of opportunity for her and other Chinese who don’t have relatives in the U.S. to help them settle there. She’s hopeful that her skills working as a sales promoter for Tencent Games will help her get ahead in Mexico.
Source: ABC
