Exploring dynamics and fostering development
Welcome to the China and Asia Hub, where we explore the dynamic interactions between China and the world. Our research spans crucial areas such as sustainable finance, artificial intelligence technology, and regional integration in globalisation, exemplified by initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). We also focus on foreign direct investment (FDI) and capability upgrading, exploring how these elements influence and are influenced by China's global engagement. Through rigorous analysis and innovative research, we aim to provide valuable insights into the complex and evolving landscape of China's interactions with surrounding countries and the broader international community. Join us as we explore the opportunities and challenges in this vital region and uncover pathways for sustainable growth and development.
Hub Lead:
Sustainable Development Goals
Griffith University is aligned with the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and is committed to advancing sustainable development through comprehensive initiatives that promote economic prosperity, social inclusion, environmental sustainability and good governance for all.
Our publications
Explore our commentary, policy briefs and research papers from China and the Northeast Asia region.
Research highlights
Below are some examples of our research projects that delve into critical issues such as China's investments in the Asia Pacific, green trade initiatives, the Belt and Road Initiative, green finance, the transition away from coal-fired power plants, entrepreneurship, agricultural exports, and foreign policy. Below are some examples of our impactful research that is shaping the future of regional development and cooperation.
China Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Investment Report 2025 H1
The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Investment Report 2025 H1, authored by Christoph Nedopil of the Griffith Asia Institute, provides the latest insights into China’s global finance and investment activities under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
Preliminary data reveal record engagement in the first half of 2025, with USD 66.2 billion in construction contracts and USD 57.1 billion in investments—totalling USD 124 billion across 176 deals. This surpasses all BRI activity recorded in 2024. Cumulatively, Chinese engagement has now reached USD 1.308 trillion since the BRI’s launch in 2013.
Green Energy Network - Asia (GEN-A)
Green independent power producers (IPPs) in Asia
China's investment in the Asia Pacific
China green trade report 2023
China's Belt and Road investments
China green finance status and trends 2023-2024
China coal exit: Phase down of coal-fired power in Pakistan and Vietnam
Building capacity through climate-resilience and gender-inclusive entrepreneurship in Mongolia
Strengthening small-scale agricultural exports to China
Discerning China’s foreign policy playbook: Goals and strategies
Our researchers
- Professor Robert Bianchi
- Professor Cordia Chu
- Dr Maria Dharmesti
- Dr John Fan
- Dr Hui Feng
- Dr Huiyun Feng
- Dr Bernard Gan
- Dr Connie Gan
- Assoc Prof Gloria Ge
- Dr Paul Howard
- Dr Fang Hu
- Shawn Hunter
- Dr Sheryn Lee
- Dr Diego Leiva
- Em Prof Colin Mackerras
- Dr Lili Mi
- Professor Christoph Nedopil
- Dr Wei Shao
- Dr Ryan Tang
- Assoc Prof Peter Woods
Our partners
Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research
Climate Smart Ventures
Curtin University
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade
Foundation for Development Cooperation
Green Finance Development Center
Institute for Essential Services Reform
Independent Research Institute of Mongolia
Pakistan-China Institute
United Nations Capital Development Fund