The Agricultural Development Bank of China has allocated 2.7 trillion yuan ($376.7 billion) since 2021 to protect Asia's two most critical waterways – the Yangtze and Yellow rivers. This unprecedented financing underscores China's commitment to balancing ecological preservation with economic development.
Of the total, 2.09 trillion yuan targets Yangtze River initiatives, while 605.2 billion yuan supports Yellow River projects. The funds have enabled large-scale environmental restoration, pollution control, and sustainable land use programs along the rivers that sustain nearly 40% of China's population.
Bank officials confirmed expanded focus on four key areas: water security through flood management systems, modern transport infrastructure, rural revitalization projects, and food security measures. This strategic approach aims to address both immediate ecological challenges and long-term climate resilience.
As climate change intensifies water scarcity across Asia, these investments position China's policy banks as key players in regional environmental governance. The initiatives could set benchmarks for sustainable river management in developing economies worldwide.
