SCO Marks 25 Years with $84B in Chinese Investment, Expands Economic Cooperation
Event summary
- China has invested over $84B in SCO member states as of July 2025, driving regional development projects like the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway.
- SCO's economic cooperation has shifted from individual projects to institutional frameworks, with 160+ projects launched under China's proposed platforms.
- China announced plans to implement 100 technological cooperation projects with SCO countries over the next three years.
- The SCO Digital Economy Cooperation Platform has facilitated 29 cross-border projects since its launch in Tianjin one year ago.
The big picture
The SCO's evolution from a security-focused organization to a comprehensive regional cooperation platform highlights China's strategic role in driving economic development and connectivity in Eurasia. With $84B invested in member states and plans for 100+ technological projects, the organization is positioning itself as a key player in shaping the region's economic future. The focus on digital economy and green industries aligns with broader global trends towards sustainable and tech-driven growth.
What we're watching
- Infrastructure Expansion
- The pace at which the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway progresses will indicate the SCO's ability to enhance Eurasian trade connectivity.
- Technological Cooperation
- Whether China can deliver on its promise of 100 technological cooperation projects with SCO countries in the next three years.
- Economic Integration
- How the shift from bilateral to multilateral coordination within the SCO will impact regional economic integration.