TOP 10 Biggest Megaprojects in China

Over the past decade, China's economy has surged to rival the GDP of the United States. This growth is bolstered by strategic infrastructure projects that have expanded its influence in Central Europe and Africa. These developments underscore China's transformation into a global economic powerhouse despite Western skepticism.

The Shenzhen-Hong Kong International Center, set for completion by 2029, will feature the world's second tallest building at 700 meters. Located in one of China's major business hubs near Hong Kong, this $8 billion project aims to centralize trade and commerce. The tower will house offices, hotels, apartments alongside unique amenities like a screening room and rooftop swimming pool. Additionally, the development includes stadiums to enhance its multifunctional appeal.

Shanghai, China's largest city, boasts one of the world's longest subway networks. The city's transport infrastructure continues to grow with a 286-kilometer extension connecting two airports and major railway stations. This project includes five new metro lines and two additional railway lines, enhancing connectivity across Shanghai. With advancements like the maglev train—the fastest operating globally—this expansion reflects both urban development and China's economic progress.

China, with its powerful economy and third-strongest military globally, aims to extend influence eastward and westward. The South China Sea is a critical trade route hosting some of the world's busiest ports. To control this region, China has constructed artificial islands equipped with air defense and anti-missile systems as a countermeasure against frequent U.S. presence and potential conflicts involving Taiwan.

In 2024, construction began on Guangzhou Evergrande Stadium, a unique project costing $1.7 billion with a capacity of 100,000 people. The stadium's design resembles a lotus flower to reflect the area's cultural identity and natural characteristics. Initially spearheaded by a real estate development company that faced financial difficulties in 2022, the state eventually took over its implementation.

By 2027, Chengdu aims to complete the construction of a subway network that will become the world's largest. The project includes six new metro lines and builds upon an existing system whose first phase was delivered in 2010. With 22 planned extensions, many are under construction while others remain in planning stages. Current efforts focus on extending existing lines into suburban areas as part of a phased development approach.

The Yantai-Dalian undersea tunnel, spanning 123 km with 90 km underwater, will connect the eastern city of Yantai to Dalian across the Bohai Sea. This ambitious project aims to replace an eight-hour ferry trip with a one-hour train journey and includes provisions for transporting cars like the Channel Tunnel. Proposed in the 1990s and approved by China’s government in 2014 as part of broader infrastructure plans, construction is expected to conclude by 2039 at a cost of $20 billion.

The Taiwan Strait Tunnel Project, proposed by China in 1996 as part of the Beijing-Taipei Expressway, envisions three undersea tunnels each four times longer than the Channel Tunnel. Estimated to cost $32 billion, its feasibility is tied to China's potential occupation of Taiwan due to strained relations between both nations. While seen by Taiwan as propaganda rather than a genuine proposal, it reflects China's ambition and economic strategies concerning the island nation.

China initiated the South-North Water Transfer Project in 2003 to address water scarcity in its central and western regions, crucial for agriculture. This ambitious project aims to transport water over 1,200 km through tunnels, ensuring adequate irrigation for farmlands where weather conditions are warmer and suitable for cultivation.

China boasts the world's largest high-speed rail network, spanning 40,000 km. Plans are underway to expand this infrastructure to 70,000 km by 2035 with significant projects like the Sichuan-Tibet Railway and Chang-Kum-Y HSR. The government is investing heavily in these developments both domestically and internationally, including ventures in Indonesia. By 2050, a total investment of $79 billion will ensure completion of these ambitious railway expansions.

The Belt and Road Initiative, launched by China in 2013, is one of the world's most ambitious infrastructure projects. It aims to revive the historic Silk Road through global investments in railways, highways, ports, and canals connecting Europe to Asia. Examples include railway construction in Nigeria and Pakistan, a Himalayan highway project, a port development in Sri Lanka, high-speed railways in Indonesia as well as collaborations with European Union countries for enhanced connectivity.

The Outro Peninsula project, along with thousands of other mega projects in China, represents a significant investment totaling $4 trillion. This selection highlights some of the most fascinating developments among these massive undertakings. For those interested in exploring more Chinese mega projects, engagement through comments and subscriptions is encouraged.