The China in Africa Podcast China's Evolution from "Rules Taker" to "Rules Maker" in Development Finance
Nov 3, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Kevin Gallagher, a global development policy expert, and Greg Chin, a political science professor, dive into China's remarkable shift from a 'rules taker' to a 'rules maker' in international development finance. They delve into China's establishment of alternative institutions like the AIIB and NDB, emphasizing its growing influence in global governance. Key topics include China's push for green finance, recent debt restructuring practices, and the changing dynamics between donor and recipient nations as China redefines development norms.
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China's Shift From Taker To Maker
- China evolved from a beneficiary of Bretton Woods to a strategic actor shaping global finance through new institutions.
- Building the AIIB, NDB, and using policy banks let China punch above its formal voting weight in legacy institutions.
Rebuffed Voice Sparked New Banks
- China was rebuffed in attempts to increase voice at the World Bank and ADB, prompting creation of alternatives.
- That frustration, including the Obama-era negotiation story, helped trigger the AIIB and NDB initiatives.
Inside‑Outside Leverage
- China leverages ‘inside-outside’ power: create alternatives, then use them to influence legacy MDBs.
- This two-way countervailing power raises new norms, especially on green finance and climate commitments.
