Chinese investment surges in Brazil

Chinese investment in Brazil surged by 45 percent in 2025, reaching $6.1 billion, which is the highest level recorded since 2017. According to a survey by the Brazil-China Business Council (CEBC), cited in a Brazilian media report, this significant uptick established Brazil as the primary destination for Chinese overseas capital during the year, outpacing the United States, which secured 6.8 percent of the total, compared to Brazil’s 10.9 percent.

While electricity remained the most prominent sector for Chinese investment in Brazil, accounting for 29.5 percent of total invested value, the mining industry emerged as a powerful new force. Mining investment more than tripled year-on-year, rising to $1.76 billion from $557 million in 2024, representing 29 percent of the total investment profile.

[See more: Trade between Hong Kong and Brazil set to streamline]

The surge in project volume was equally notable, with Chinese companies launching 52 ventures across Brazil, a 33 percent increase from 2024 and the highest total since 2010. These projects achieved a record geographic reach, extending across 20 Brazilian states, up from 14 the previous year.

Chinese investment in Brazil: oil remains key

Beyond mining, the automotive industry ranked third in value for Chinese investment in Brazil, followed by oil and information technology. Despite a 24 percent decline in oil investment compared to the previous year, totaling $804 million, the sector remained a key pillar. 

A significant transaction in this space saw the state-owned firm CNPC partner with the U.S.-based company Chevron to secure nine exploration blocks near the Amazon River mouth in an auction conducted by the National Agency of Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels (ANP).

Sustainability efforts also maintained their momentum, with investments in hydropower, wind, solar, and electric-vehicle-related industries reaching a record 31 projects, marking the fifth consecutive year of growth for green energy ventures.