China's Belt and Road Initiative surpasses mid-year funding milestone in Central Asia, raking in a massive $25 billion investment.
In the first six months of 2025, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) reached an unprecedented milestone, with total investments and construction contracts amounting to approximately $124 billion. This figure surpassed the full-year 2024 investment figure of $122 billion, marking a significant growth in BRI activity.
According to a report published by Griffith University and the Beijing-based Green Finance and Development Center, the first half of 2025 was a record-breaking period for BRI activity. The report also emphasised the need for investments to support the green transition, both in China and in BRI countries.
Sector-wise, the energy sector accounted for about 35% of investments, with approximately $44 billion in deals—half of which were in oil and gas. Notably, green energy sectors such as wind, solar, waste-to-energy, and hydropower saw a significant increase, installing nearly 12 GW of new green capacity globally.
The metals and mining sector continued to expand its role as the second largest sector, reaching a record high of $24.9 billion. On the other hand, the technology sector's share of BRI engagement contracted slightly to 13.3%. However, investments in technology across BRI countries more than doubled to reach $23.2 billion.
Geographically, Central Asia, particularly Kazakhstan with $23 billion, was a leading recipient of BRI investments. Thailand and Egypt followed closely with $7.4 billion and $4.8 billion, respectively.
The report also highlighted that BRI investments are unlikely to be significantly impacted by global economic turmoil. Furthermore, no mention of U.S.-led trade impositions affecting BRI investments was found in the current paragraph.
Looking ahead, future projections suggest that China is strategically leveraging BRI investments to bolster competitiveness and supply chain resilience. This trajectory indicates sustained or increased investment into clean energy projects, infrastructure, and technology sectors to meet global shifts towards sustainability and industrial upgrading.
In summary, 2025 H1 has marked a historic high in BRI investments, with a clear tilt toward energy and tech sectors, particularly green energy. Future investment rounds are expected to keep emphasising these strategic sectors to enhance long-term economic and supply chain resilience in partner countries.
[1] Griffith University and the Beijing-based Green Finance and Development Center, (2025). Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Activity Report, July 17. [2] Xinhua News Agency, (2025). BRI investments reach record high in H1 2025. [3] Reuters, (2025). BRI investments in green energy soar in H1 2025. [4] South China Morning Post, (2025). BRI investments shift towards emerging markets in H1 2025.
- The energy sector and the technology sector, including green energy sectors, received substantial investments within the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) during the first half of 2025, with the technology sector's investments more than doubling to reach $23.2 billion.
- Future investment projections for the BRI suggest a continued focus on strategic sectors such as clean energy projects, infrastructure, and technology sectors, indicative of China's commitment to meeting global shifts towards sustainability and industrial upgrading.
