Presentation short abstract

This collective article examines China-G7 competition in leading green infrastructure development by comparing the Lobito Corridor and the Tazara Railway projects. It argues that this competition offers host countries and local actors leverage points for upholding just transition claims.

Presentation long abstract

This collective article examines China-G7 competition in leading green infrastructure projects in the Global South, particularly its impact on a globally just transition. We compare the G7-led Lobito Corridor and China-led Tazara Railway projects, which similarly aim to unlock the critical minerals necessary to sustain the energy transition in exchange for investment in local infrastructure, but exhibit different development finance models and adherence to environmental justice norms. While China relies on state directives, state-owned enterprises, and policy banks, the G7 enlists governments and international institutions in underwriting risks for private and institutional investors. Based on a close examination of project documents, policy reports, and interviews with experts, we argue that the competition between these models offers host countries and local actors leverage points to rebalance foreign investors’ priorities in favor of local needs for development and environmental stewardship, potentially countering neo-colonial extractive trends and building pathways to a globally just transition.

Co-authors include: Andrew Cheon, Erika Weinthal, Paula Ganga, Dorothy Song, Wumeng He, Jennifer Turner, Loren Risi, and Hyeyoon Park.