CKGSB Knowledge Authors

Where in the World is China Investing?

January 25, 2013

In 2011 China engaged in multilateral trade across the globe, both spending on imported goods and services, and investing in foreign industries. Topping China’s shopping list were machinery and electrical equipment imports from Japan, Korea, Taiwan, the United States and Germany, followed by mineral products from Australia, Russia and Indonesia. Five of China’s key import partners were Asian neighbors including Malaysia and Thailand, according to data on China’s investment and trade compiled from China’s Ministry of Commerce.

While China’s foreign direct investment was largely channeled through Hong Kong, totaling $35.65 billion in 2011, the final destinations of this investment are scattered across all corners of the globe. Likewise, the British Virgin Islands and Cayman Islands act as gateway channels to global FDI destinations. China’s investment targets reflect the country’s insatiable need for energy with investment in energy, mining, oil, gas and mineral industries in developed markets France, Singapore, Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Interestingly, emerging markets such as Sudan, Russia, Iran and Indonesia are also key beneficiaries of China’s hunger for resources.

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