Misconceptions and Realities of China's Belt and Road Initiative

This chapter addresses the misconceptions surrounding China's Belt and Road initiative, clarifying that it is not a single project but a term for various loans, investments, grants, and infrastructure projects. It explores examples of Belt and Road projects, including a controversial highway in Jamaica, highlighting the negative impact on local communities. The chapter also discusses the differences between Chinese loans and traditional development finance, emphasizing the lack of policy conditionality in Chinese loans.