Breaking: U.S. Holds Largest Share of China‘s $2.2 Trillion in Global Loans
Jakarta – New data reveals the United States is the largest recipient of loans from China, a shift indicating Beijing is increasingly financing projects in high-income nations rather than developing countries.
A report published by AidData,a research laboratory at the University of William & Mary,details China’s lending and grant activity totaling $2.2 trillion (approximately IDR 36,740 trillion, using an exchange rate of IDR 16,700) extended to 200 countries between 2000 and 2023.
While previously recognized for its lending through the Belt and Road Initiative to developing nations, China is now directing funds toward strategic infrastructure and high-tech supply chains – including semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and clean energy - in more developed economies.
AidData estimates the total size of China’s loan portfolio is two to four times larger than previously understood, solidifying its position as the world’s largest debt provider.
The report indicates that over three-quarters of China’s foreign lending now supports projects in upper-middle- and high-income countries. Chinese creditors have provided credit facilities to major Fortune 500 companies, including Amazon, AT&T, Verizon, tesla, General Motors, Ford, Boeing, and Disney, and have financed acquisitions of high-tech companies.
Loans to low- and lower-middle-income countries have decreased from 88% in 2000 to 12% in 2023, with a corresponding reduction in funding for infrastructure projects within the “Global South” under the Belt and Road Initiative.
Conversely, support for middle- and high-income countries has risen from 24% in 2000 to 76% in 2023. The United Kingdom has received $60 billion,while the European Union has received $161 billion.
Responding to a request for comment, China’s Foreign Ministry stated its overseas investments and financing adhere to international standards.
“This loan complies with international practices, market principles and debt sustainability principles,” the Ministry said, as quoted by Reuters on November 23, 2025.
