China's Global Role

China is the country with the highest numbers of dams in the world, and in recent years, Chinese institutions have taken a lead in building dams not just domestically but also abroad. Chinese banks and companies are involved in constructing at least 97 large dams in 37 different countries, particularly in Africa and Southeast Asia, including Kamchay Dam (Cambodia), Mphanda Nkuwa Dam (Mozambique), Merowe Dam (Sudan), and Tasang Dam (Burma). (For more information on these projects, see our case studies.)

Many of the dams China has become involved in have harmed local communities and the natural resources they depend on. Chinese financers have frequently funded projects that had been turned down by traditional dam financiers such as the World Bank.

International Rivers works with its partners to communicate the experiences of the international movement for "people, water, and life"to new dam financiers and builders in China. We have initially focused on the China Export-Import Bank (China Exim Bank) the country's official export credit agency, who is the most important source of funds for Chinese dam projects overseas. China Exim Bank recently provided improved environmental and social guidelines for domestic and overseas loan projects.

In addition, International Rivers' China Global Campaign provides information about China's role in global dam building, supports groups in countries affected by Chinese dams, and fosters a dialogue within China about the responsibilities of Chinese dam builders.

LATEST ADDITIONS:

Sinohydro Builds Hydro Workload in Tajikistan, Africa

The New Great Walls: A Guide to China’s Overseas Dam Industry

Guidelines for Environmental and Social Impact Assessments of the China Export and Import Bank’s Loan Projects

Dams Built Around the World by Chinese Institutions

China's Environmental Footprint in Africa

CONTACT US:

Peter Bosshard
peter [at] internationalrivers [dot] org
+1 510 848 1155

Nicole Brewer
nicole [at] internationalrivers [dot] org
+1 510 848 1155