Brazil’s first Chinese international school signals soft power push from Beijing

China has been Brazil’s leading economic partner for the last decade and has clear plans to increase its footprint in the country and the surrounding region. Even during the Covid-19 pandemic, China was one of the few countries to increase its demand for Brazilian products. And this relationship goes beyond trade, with the Asian giant seeking to increase its influence in other, more cultural fields. A prime example is the brand-new International Chinese School in Rio de Janeiro, the first of its kind in the country. 

The institution, which opened its doors in February, intends to “provide international standard teaching in Brazil following the Chinese education model,” while remaining integrated with the national Brazilian curriculum.

“We promote traditional Chinese culture and prepare talents to make outstanding contributions to economic development and cultural exchange between the two countries,” says the school, in a press release.

The International Chinese School was created with financial support from Chinese companies and expats in Rio de Janeiro, with the authorization of the Chinese consulate in the city. Indeed, the project has been the brainchild of consul Li Yang, ever since he was posted to Rio de Janeiro four years ago.

Approximately 300,000 Chinese expats live in Brazil. Dozens of Chinese companies have branches in the country, mainly in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. The latter is expected to have its own...