- NATIONAL GEOSPATIAL-INTELLIGENCE AGENCY
China's Investments in Myanmar: Analyzing the Status of Projects
The Kyaukphyu Special Economic Zone (KPSEZ) is a primary area of focus for China in Burma (Myanmar). The KPSEZ, under the umbrella of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), is one of three special economic zones funded by foreign-direct investment and supported by the Myanmar government for economic development.
Exploring China's Footprint in the Andes Mountains: Copper Mining in Ecuador
Ecuador's desire to become a global exporter of copper coincides with increased Chinese demand for and investment in copper mining. Both copper mines in Ecuador are owned by the same Chinese company. The inauguration of mine construction and activity has led to negative environmental damage and forced relocations of indigenous communities at both mines.
Exploring China's Footprint in the Andes Mountains: Copper Mining in Peru
Expansion of copper mining is driving economic growth in Peru, which coincides with increased Chinese demand and investment in copper mining. Chinese involvement in Peru's mining sector varies by project and is often obfuscated through intermediary company involvement in mine acquisition or construction.
Chinese Maritime Expansion and Potential Dual-Use Implications on Critical Maritime Chokepoints
Though Chinese "Belt-and-Road Initiative" (BRI) investments and related economic activities abroad have been a touchpoint for international studies, this report poses a hypothetical "what if" scenario and seeks to address one facet of the potential implications if Chinese facilities abroad are used for dual-use military/civilian purposes.
China's BRI in Latin America: Case Study – Hydropower in Ecuador
In contrast to our findings of BRI hydroelectric power projects in Bolivia, in Ecuador, we observe fewer problematic environmental impacts in the majority of Chinese projects, with several accompanied by substantial local community development initiatives.
China's BRI in Latin America: Case Study - Hydropower in Bolivia
In line with the push for environmentally friendly Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) infrastructure projects and Bolivia's former President Evo Morales' "2025 Patriotic Agenda" to transform Bolivia into a regional energy hub, China has supported six hydropower energy projects in the country. The success of these projects vary, and are more dependent on domestic factors in Bolivia than the actions of China.
China's BRI in Latin America: Case Study - Ports
China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is not a monolithic enterprise. Across seven BRI port projects in Central America and the Caribbean, we find evidence that the project partnerships between China and recipient countries vary significantly regarding construction processes and end results.
China's BRI in Latin America: Case Study - Sustainable Energy in Cuba
In contrast to high carbon-emitting Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) energy projects in other countries, China has supported renewable and sustainable projects in Cuba. What sets the "Green BRI" in Cuba apart from the rest of the region?
Sustainability of China's Overseas Special Economic Zones: Introduction
China's economic diplomacy has encouraged the use of special economic zones (SEZs) abroad. These areas of specialized regulation and incentives are aimed at attracting foreign investment. However, China's emphasis on SEZs to promote quick economic growth has raised questions about whether China is sacrificing sustainable development for speed.
Sustainability of China's Overseas Special Economic Zones: Environmental Sustainability
Evaluating the impact of SEZ development on land, water and air using satellite imagery, we identify examples of where zones appear to be succeeding or struggling to preserve and protect their local environmental conditions.