Chinese Outbound Investment in Technology: Bits, Bytes, and All Things Tech
November 18, 2014
Our infographic series on Chinese Outbound Investment is back this week. Previously we explored China’s outbound investment in the real estate, automotive, energy and food sectors. This week we have decided to up the geek quotient by telling you about China’s biggest overseas investments in the tech sector.
When Lenovo bought IBM’s PC division back in 2005, it was considered a landmark deal. With this $1.75 billion acquisition, Lenovo went on to become the world’s largest PC manufacturer. It was the first time a Chinese company had made such a big splash in the global technology sector.
Ever since the Chinese tech sector has come into its own. Companies like Alibaba, Tencent and Huawei have been investing in companies ranging from online game developers to luxury e-commerce sites. In recent years we have seen several deals including marquee names in the global tech industry. In 2014, for instance, Lenovo bought IBM’s low-end server business for a sum of $2.3 billion. A few months later, it bought Motorola Mobility from Google for $2.92 billion, making this China’s largest ever tech deal. The deal also helped Lenovo become the world’s third-largest smartphone maker, surpassing Xiaomi, which, ironically, had just jumped into the Top 3 list earlier on that same day.
Jack Ma, founder of Alibaba and now China’s richest man, and Pony Ma, CEO of Tencent, have been actively investing in companies overseas. In 2011, Tencent bought Riot Games and the popular video game League of Legends for $400 million. In 2013, Tencent showed up in controversial photo messaging app Snapchat’s series A investors list. And more recently it bought a 28% stake in Korea’s CJ Games. Meanwhile, China’s e-commerce colossus Alibaba led a $206 million investment in online retail website ShopRunner. It has also invested $280 million investment in US-based mobile messaging app Tango and $120 million in game developer Kabam.
In the first half of 2014, technology made up only a minute 3% of China’s total outbound investment according to research by the Heritage Foundation, despite the sheer growth in the number of deals. Going forward, we believe, that the number will only become bigger.
Read on to see who is part of the action.
Enjoying what you’re reading?
Article Subscribe (1)
CKGSB Report
Our Programs
Emerging Tech Management Week: Silicon Valley
Global Unicorn Program Series
In partnership with UC Berkeley College of Engineering
A technology management program for leaders looking to turn emerging technologies into business opportunities.
Combining proven strategies and cutting-edge research, the program helps participants fuel innovation, seize opportunities in emerging technologies, and catalyze transformation within their organizations. Designed for managers, start-up leaders, and technology investors, it includes visits to venture capital firms and technology companies, alongside mentored group projects.
LocationUC Berkeley, California, United States
Date01 - 06 Nov, 2026
LanguageEnglish
Stanford & Silicon Valley Immersion Program
Global Unicorn Program Series
In partnership with Stanford Engineering Center for Global & Online Education
A Silicon Valley immersion for entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs, and investors leading and scaling AI-driven companies.
The program combines academic learning with visits to AI and robotics labs and Silicon Valley companies, giving participants direct exposure to emerging technologies and the businesses developing and applying them.
LocationStanford University Campus, California, United States
Date06 - 11 Dec, 2026
LanguageEnglish with Chinese Translation
Emerging Markets: Innovation and Scaling for Exponential Growth – ASEAN
A China-focused innovation program for ASEAN executives and business owners responding to the impact of AI on their industries.
Gain insights from leading Chese thinkers in Jakarta, with an optional immersion in China and opportunities to connect with the business leaders driving innovation. The program offers a closer look at how developments in China could affect your industry and business.
LocationJakarta, Indonesia
Date23–26 March 2027
LanguageEnglish (with Chinese translation)
Asia Start: AI + Digital Ecosystem China Expedition
An immersive program for entrepreneurs and executives looking to understand China's AI and digital economy firsthand.
Gain the latest trends and insights, strategies, and connections to overcome challenges and support future business growth in Asia and beyond.
LocationChina (Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou & optional Shenzhen)
DateApril 19–24, 2027
LanguageEnglish
Intelligent China: AI, EVs & Smart Manufacturing
A three-part program examining China’s advances in AI, electric vehicles, and smart manufacturing.
Through faculty-led sessions, company visits, and exchanges with industry leaders, gain practical insights for your organization's strategy, partnerships, and investment decisions. Join an individual four-day program or complete the full 12-day series.
LocationBeijing, Shenzhen, Shanghai, and Hangzhou
DateSummer – Winter 2027 (three 4-day programs)
LanguageEnglish
