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The Top 20 Countries in Debt to China: A Closer Look
As global financial dynamics continue to shift, China’s role as a major lender has drawn attention. Countries around the world are increasingly turning to China for loans, often leading to a significant amount of external debt. Here, we break down the top 20 countries that owe the most money to China as of 2022.

1. Pakistan – $26.6 Billion
At the top of the list is Pakistan, with a staggering debt of $26.6 billion owed to China. This financial relationship has been fueled by investments in infrastructure projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a vital component of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
2. Angola – $21.0 Billion
Angola finds itself as the second-largest debtor, owing China about $21 billion. Much of this debt is associated with loans linked to oil export agreements, highlighting the resource-backed financing strategy commonly employed by China in Africa.
3. Sri Lanka – $8.9 Billion
Sri Lanka’s debt to China stands at $8.9 billion. The country’s reliance on Chinese finance for infrastructure projects has reached critical levels, illustrating the complex balance between development and debt dependency.
4. Ethiopia – $6.8 Billion
With a background of rapid economic growth, Ethiopia owes China approximately $6.8 billion. Investment in railways and other infrastructure is central to the nation’s ambitious economic plans, but the debt burden raises concerns.
5. Kenya – $6.7 Billion
Kenya holds a debt of $6.7 billion to China, primarily attributable to major infrastructure projects such as railways and roads. This indebtedness illustrates the nation’s strategic embrace of Chinese investments.
6. Zambia – $6.1 Billion
Zambia’s financial relationship with China is significant, with debts totaling $6.1 billion. This debt has been a source of tension, especially as the country struggles with its economic challenges.
7. Bangladesh – $6.1 Billion
Bangladesh shares the same debt level as Zambia, reporting $6.1 billion owed to China. Investments in infrastructure, particularly within the energy sector, have driven this indebtedness.
8. Laos – $5.3 Billion
Laos finds itself in debt to the tune of $5.3 billion. The country’s reliance on Chinese loans for hydropower projects showcases a growing trend among smaller nations in Southeast Asia.
9. Egypt – $5.2 Billion
Debt levels for Egypt have reached $5.2 billion, emphasizing the critical role of Chinese financing in national infrastructure initiatives including transportation and energy.
10. Nigeria – $4.3 Billion
Nigeria’s debt to China amounts to $4.3 billion, much of which is tied to investments in rail systems and power generation, crucial for the nation’s development.
11. Ecuador – $4.1 Billion
In South America, Ecuador stands with $4.1 billion in Chinese debt, often linked to oil agreements and infrastructure projects designed to revitalize its economy.
12. Cambodia – $4.0 Billion
As Cambodia’s economy grows, so does its debt to China, which is currently about $4 billion. Investments in upcoming infrastructure projects underscore the importance of this financial relationship.
13. Belarus – $3.9 Billion
Belarus owes approximately $3.9 billion to China. With a focus on economic development, this relationship plays a pivotal role in Belarusian financial strategies.
14. Côte d’Ivoire – $3.9 Billion
Côte d’Ivoire finds itself in a similar financial position, also with $3.9 billion owed to China. The debt is often tied to investments in infrastructure that aid in regional integration.
15. Cameroon – $3.8 Billion
Cameroon shows a debt level of $3.8 billion, with much of this funding channeled towards enhancing infrastructure and bolstering economic growth.
16. South Africa – $3.4 Billion
South Africa holds $3.4 billion in debt to China, reflecting investments aimed at boosting economic development through vital infrastructure improvements.
17. Congo (Brazzaville) – $3.4 Billion
The Republic of the Congo has accumulated a debt of $3.4 billion owed to China, mainly connected to oil and infrastructure projects.
18. Brazil – $3.4 Billion
Brazil’s financial obligations to China stand at $3.4 billion, highlighting ongoing collaborations, especially within the energy and transport sectors.
19. Mongolia – $3.0 Billion
Mongolia’s debt to China totals $3 billion, with investments primarily directed towards mining and infrastructure development.
20. Argentina – $2.9 Billion
Rounding out the list, Argentina owes China $2.9 billion, mostly tied to loans for infrastructure projects aimed at boosting the nation’s economic framework.
Understanding External Debt
External debt refers to the money a country owes to foreign lenders, and in this case, China is a major player. The increasing reliance on Chinese loans highlights the intricate balance between developing essential infrastructure and the potential risks associated with high debt levels.
As nations navigate these financial relationships, the implications of external debt will play a crucial role in their economic futures. The challenge lies in ensuring sustainable development while managing these financial obligations.
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