China’s outbound investment accelerated in 2025, reaching its highest level in seven years.
Chinese companies announced US$124 billion in outbound direct investment last year, an 18% increase compared with 2024.
The details
Chinese firms are deliberately redirecting capital toward energy, raw materials, and data-centre-related infrastructure. Together, these sectors accounted for nearly half of all newly announced investments.
At the same time, the previously dominant automotive sector has lost significant weight, falling to its lowest share since 2020.
The geographic allocation shows a clear shift:
Asia and sub-Saharan Africa as the primary destinations
MENA region at record levels
Europe, North America, and Oceania together receiving less than 20% of total investment
Bottom Line
The investment surge comes despite persistent geopolitical tensions and rising barriers in Western markets.
Meanwhile, China’s export engine continues to run at full speed: in 2025, the country recorded a record trade surplus of around US$1.2 trillion.
Crucially, despite rising outbound investment, China is expanding domestic manufacturing capacity far faster than overseas production. New offshore factories declined in nearly all regions — with North Africa as the key exception.
👉 Full story: Nikkei, SCMP
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