The Chinese Private Enterprises Outward Direct Foreign Investment Index 2023, authored by the research team led by Professor Xue Jun from Nankai University’s School of Economics, has been officially published by the People’s Publishing House. This is the seventh installment in the series since its launch in 2017. The report offers an in-depth analysis of the evolution and trends of Chinese private enterprises’ outward direct foreign investment (OFDI) post-WTO accession, offering valuable insights and references for global investors and scholars.

The report reveals that after a five-year decline, Chinese private enterprises’ OFDI has experienced a notable upturn in 2023. Since 2013, OFDI has shown robust growth, particularly in countries along the Belt and Road Initiative. Additionally, according to UNCTAD statistics, global OFDI saw a significant decline in 2020 compared to that of China.China’s OFDI stock ranks third globally as of 2023, yet it stands at only 31% of the United States. Notably, China’s OFDI as a percentage of GDP, stands at just 17%, remains relatively low compared to other major economies such as the US (35%), Japan (51%), Germany (49%), the UK (64%), France (54%) and Republic of Korea (40%), indicating substantial growth potential for the future.

Professor Xue Jun’s team has categorized Chinese enterprises into four types based on ownership: private enterprises, state-owned enterprises, and those with affiliations from Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, as well as foreign entities, and compiled a full sample database of Chinese enterprises' OFDI, including details on investment models, investment sources, investment target countries (regions), and investment target industries. The Chinese Private Enterprise OFDI Index is built upon this database. It facilitates a comparative study with OFDI from enterprises of other three ownership structures, offering a multi-dimensional and comprehensive view of the evolution and characteristics of Chinese private enterprises’ OFDI.

Over the past seven years, this report’s research scope has broadened significantly, evolving from its initial focus on developing an index system and measuring various indices to encompassing theoretical analyses that capture the distinctive features of China’s economy throughout its developmental stages. This report dynamically illustrates the evolving trends in China’s private enterprises’ OFDI and explores the driving forces behind their global expansion. It maintains the rigorous objectivity of a statistical yearbook and acts as a think tank to enhance the international development of Chinese private businesses.

Looking ahead, Professor Xue Jun’s team stated that they will continue to uphold the three core principles of being 'globally unique, statistical yearbook-style, and sustainable' as they strive to build a high-quality, reliable 'Nankai China OFDI Index' brand. Furthermore, the team aims to advance facts analysis to theoretical heights, offering theoretical support and practical guidance for establishing a long-term mechanism for Chinese private enterprises to expand globally.

（Edited and translated by Nankai News Team.)