Chinese infrastructure and energy investment in Africa surged to a record $33.5 billion during the first half of 2026, nearly tripling from the previous year, according to a new report. That figure represents the strongest six-month total for any region under China’s Belt and Road Initiative, although spending elsewhere largely declined. Ethiopia led the surge with a $14.2 billion green energy and ammonia project backed by Ming Yang Smart Energy, while Egypt secured $12.2 billion in investment, including a $10 billion steel mill. Zambia also plans to construct a 660-megawatt coal-fired power plant with Chinese backing, pending regulatory approval. Researchers say the investment boom reflects China’s expanding focus on manufacturing and renewable energy while leveraging Africa’s preferential access to US and EU markets amid rising global trade barriers.
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