Chinese investments in Africa soar to $34 billion so far this year
China’s infrastructure and energy investments in Africa have nearly tripled to $33.5 billion in the first half of 2026, according to a new report. This is by far the strongest performance of any region under Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative and the highest half-year total in history. This increase was driven by major energy and metals projects but also reflects manufacturers using Africa’s privileged access to US and EU markets to overcome growing trade barriers elsewhere.
Ethiopia recorded the largest increase of any country, led by the $14.2 billion Ming Yang Smart Energy green energy and ammonia project. Egypt has attracted $12.2 billion in investment, including a $10 billion steel plant, while Zambia has announced plans for a 660 MW coal power plant, pending regulatory approval. In most other BRI regions, investments decreased while construction activities increased.
According to analysis According to statements from the Shanghai-based Center for Green Finance and Development and the University of Queensland in Australia, fluctuations resulting from the Strait of Hormuz crisis are likely to accelerate China’s green energy and manufacturing investments rather than slowing down overall overseas spending.
