Inland transport infrastructure spending as share of GDP in selected countries 2021

As a share of the country’s GDP, China’s average infrastructure spending in 2021 was nearly 10 times higher than that of the United States. Indeed, at 4.8 percent of its GDP, China's investments were significantly higher than anywhere else in the world. By comparison, investments in Central & Eastern Europe - the CEE region - were relatively higher than those in their Western European counterparts.

Infrastructure construction and development

The construction industry plays a significant role in most economies, particularly in that of developing countries. Oftentimes, economic growth is linked to investment into the construction industry. The reason for that is that public investment into essential infrastructure, such as airports, telecommunication networks, and transportation infrastructure connect citizens to economic opportunities and public services. Infrastructure also facilitates trade and enhances productivity.

Infrastructure needs

Despite the importance of infrastructure for the wellbeing of communities, infrastructure investment is sub par in many countries across the world. As of 2020, projected infrastructure spending was estimated to be unable to fulfill spending needs in the United States, where the aging infrastructure is in dire need of repair. Although as seen here, China was the country with the highest investment in infrastructure relative to its GDP, it also has higher projected infrastructure needs than most regions.