China's Belt and Road Initiative investment surged 75 per cent to a record US$213.5 billion in 2025, reported London's Financial Times.

The increase was driven by gas megaprojects and green power developments, according to research by Griffith University and the Green Finance & Development Center in Shanghai. Beijing signed 350 deals last year, compared with 293 worth US$122.6 billion in 2024.

The expansion reflects Beijing's push to strengthen global influence as US power wanes. Analysts said the investment boom comes amid trade and technology tensions between Washington and Beijing, while President Donald Trump's military actions have added volatility to global energy markets.