In 2024, China Development Bank (CDB) played a crucial role in advancing infrastructure construction across the country, channeling over RMB 1.53 trillion into a variety of key projects. This financial commitment supports high-quality development by focusing on five primary areas: network, industrial upgrade, urban and rural development, national security, and new infrastructure construction.

As China accelerates the implementation of the "14th Five-Year Plan" and expands its infrastructure network, CDB's financing strategies align with national priorities, demonstrating the bank's role as a key facilitator of sustainable and long-term economic growth.

Key Infrastructure Projects Supported by CDB in 2024

CDB actively backed several large-scale infrastructure projects that significantly contribute to China's economic development. These include high-speed railways, highways, nuclear power plants, water projects, and green energy initiatives.

1. High-Speed Railways and Urban Development

One of the highlights of 2024 was the fast-tracking of key high-speed rail projects, particularly the Yangtze River corridor. CDB provided the first tranche of medium- and long-term loans to the Wuhan-Yichang section of the Shanghai-Chongqing Railway, with a total length of 2,100 kilometers. Once completed, this will connect the Yangtze River Delta, Central China, and the Chengdu-Chongqing economic circle, providing a robust foundation for the Yangtze River Economic Belt's high-quality development.

Additionally, CDB reinforced its financial services for other high-speed rail projects, such as the Shanghai-Nanjing-Hefei line and the Chengdu-Chongqing middle line, addressing both the financing and progress monitoring for these critical infrastructure expansions.

2. Support for the Green Energy Transition

In 2024, CDB also committed to financing energy transitions through the construction of clean energy projects. This includes the expansion of nuclear power, exemplified by the support for the Fujian Zhangzhou nuclear plant, which saw major milestones like successful grid connection of Unit 1 and the trial operation of key equipment for Units 2, 3, and 4. By providing nearly RMB 6 billion in long-term loans, CDB bolstered China's carbon-neutrality goals, supporting the growth of nuclear energy in the country's energy mix.

3. Promoting Water Conservation and Distribution

In the field of water resources, CDB facilitated funding for key national water projects, including the Guangdong Northern Bay Water Resource Allocation Project. In line with China's continued emphasis on water security, CDB issued the first tranche of medium- and long-term loans for this water distribution initiative, which will help resolve water shortages in Guangdong's western regions.

4. New Infrastructure and Technological Innovation

The acceleration of new infrastructure initiatives, such as data centers, electric vehicle charging stations, and smart city solutions, was also a major focus for CDB. In Shenzhen and Hefei, the bank supported comprehensive projects aimed at enhancing technological infrastructure, such as large-scale scientific research facilities, energy-efficient equipment, and smart communication networks.

One of the standout projects includes the Digital Industrial Computing Center in Xiamen, which is poised to provide artificial intelligence services, industrial simulation, and validation, contributing to the seamless integration of the digital and real economies.

5. Green Transformation and Sustainable Infrastructure

CDB has increasingly aligned its financing models with sustainability goals. It supported the first “zero-carbon highway” project in Shandong, which integrates photovoltaic energy systems to significantly reduce carbon emissions. This highway is expected to cut annual CO2 emissions by 22,500 tons through renewable energy generation and sustainable infrastructure practices.

Additionally, the bank has invested in renewable energy projects in Xinjiang, such as the Tianshan Wind Power Base, which, upon completion, will provide 142 billion kWh of green electricity annually, supporting China's broader clean energy targets.

Green Finance and Supporting National Development Goals

As part of its efforts to promote sustainable development, CDB has continued to invest in projects that contribute to both economic growth and environmental sustainability. In 2024, the bank has supported a range of green initiatives, from clean transportation to green logistics, to accelerate China's transition to a carbon-neutral economy.

By strategically supporting major infrastructure initiatives, CDB is helping China meet its 14th Five-Year Plan targets while also contributing to regional economic growth and long-term sustainability. The bank's focus on financing large-scale projects across multiple sectors exemplifies its pivotal role in facilitating China's national development goals.