A pause in funding by the Trump administration may allow China to expand its influence, and it is actively pursuing this opportunity.
A former USAID official, speaking anonymously, stated that China has swiftly filled the void left by the U.S.
“Reports from Nepal, Cambodia, and Papua New Guinea show that where USAID programs have ended, China has offered to take over those projects,” the official told Digital.
Reuters reports that China has significantly increased funding to Cambodia’s Mine Action Center (CMAC), exceeding the previous U.S. contribution in response to the funding pause.
The Annapurna Express reports that China is boosting its financial aid to Nepal following the funding freeze.
The former USAID official noted that this funding halt “gives partners another reason to see the U.S. as less committed to their priorities and people.”
The impact of the funding freeze is particularly concerning for women globally.
During President Trump’s first term, Ivanka Trump spearheaded the Women’s Global Development and Prosperity Initiative (W-GDP), focused on women’s economic empowerment.
Lilian Achom, a Ugandan participant in USAID W-GDP programs, expressed concern about the impact on vulnerable women and children, particularly those affected by HIV/AIDS.
Achom, who met Ivanka Trump and spoke positively about her commitment to women’s empowerment, urged Trump to consider the plight of the underprivileged.
The former USAID official stated that the funding freeze “potentially affects every aspect of the lives of women and girls” benefiting from USAID programs, and the extent of China’s commitment to women-focused initiatives is uncertain.
The White House criticized USAID for funding “ridiculous and malicious” projects.
Examples cited by the White House include funding for electric vehicles in Vietnam, promoting diversity and inclusion in Serbia, and tourism in Egypt.
The State Department did not respond to a request for comment.