While concerns over China’s intentions for Taiwan have been dominating headlines, in the background, Beijing’s continuing to grow its influence and access in the Indo-Pacific via its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). 

Despite the risks, developing countries are still turning to the BRI for their infrastructure needs, and this presents the US and its allies with a problem. China’s BRI can be used coercively and give Beijing a strategic advantage. 

For years, the US, Australia, Japan and their partners have been developing a counter proposal to China’s BRI. This now includes via the US-Australia-Japan Trilateral, the Quad, and the G7. So, are their efforts bearing fruit? Why haven’t we seen more US and allied infrastructure projects in the region? This report seeks to provide some answers.