Belt and Road Initiative

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China's global infrastructure development strategy, is newsworthy due to recent conflicting indicators. While outward direct investment from China slowed significantly in 2025, new BRI deals reached a record US$213.5 billion, a 75% increase from 2024, driven by projects in metals, mining, fossil fuels, and new technologies. Simultaneously, Chinese lending to Africa nearly halved, suggesting a shift towards smaller projects and potentially different priorities. Hong Kong is positioning itself as a key financial hub for BRI projects, particularly in Africa, and is exploring opportunities in emerging sectors like low-altitude transportation. The BRI's continued evolution is influenced by geopolitical factors, including US policies, prompting China to prioritize resilience in technology and trade. These developments highlight the BRI's ongoing adaptation and its continued significance in global infrastructure and economic development.