Are Chinese investors losing interest in the US?
For decades, the United States was considered the premier destination for Chinese investors seeking security, educational opportunities, and economic growth. However, in recent years, this trend has begun to shift.
Factors such as geopolitical tensions, restrictive immigration policies, and a perception of hostility toward China are driving a significant shift in the preferences of Chinese investors, who are now exploring new opportunities outside of the United States.
The end of the “American dream”
According to statements by Henry Fan, CEO of Globevisa Group, in an interview with IMI DailyA cultural shift is taking place among Chinese emigrants. What was once considered a "fantasy destination" is now viewed with skepticism.
The perception that the United States is adopting a “bullying” stance has damaged its appeal among high-income Chinese citizens.
The proposal of the so-called “GoldCardThe Trump administration's program —a $5 million donation residence with fast-track citizenship— could generate international competition in the investment mobility sector.
However, even with tax incentives, experts anticipate moderate demand if current cultural and political barriers persist.
Geographic diversification: Spain, Japan and Latin America
Faced with this scenario, Chinese investors are expanding their scope and considering more receptive alternatives.
In Europe, Spain has garnered significant attention, particularly in the real estate sector. Political stability, quality of life, and, until recently, residency-by-investment programs make the country an attractive option. This is further bolstered by growing interest in other European jurisdictions such as Portugal and Italy.
In Asia, Japan has emerged as a key destinationparticularly since the pandemic. The concept of “run-ology”—a term coined on Chinese social media to refer to the art of emigrating—reflects a growing awareness and preparedness among Chinese citizens to move toward safer and more open environments.
According to estimates by Henley & Partners, more than 13,500 Chinese millionaires emigrated in 2023, many of them to Japan, in search of stability, education for their children and asset protection.
But diversification isn't limited to Europe and Asia. Latin America is also on the radar. Chile, in particular, has strengthened its ties with China through free trade agreements and economic cooperation. The Chilean market is seen as a gateway to South America, offering legal certainty, economic growth, and a strategic location for Chinese investment.
Chile also stands out for the strength of your passport, considered the most powerful in South America, with visa-free access to 175 destinations, including the US and the European Union.
Furthermore, Chilean citizens can enter China without a visa starting in June 2025. The bilateral relationship between the two countries is strong, supported by the Free Trade Agreement and their membership in APEC.
For the Asian giant, Chile represents an attractive destination due to its migratory, commercial and geopolitical advantages.
New priorities for Chinese investors
The motivations driving these investors to leave their country have evolved. It's no longer just about accumulating wealth, but about ensuring family stability, individual freedom, and access to quality education and healthcare systems.
In many cases, these factors outweigh the financial appeal that countries like the U.S. could still offer.
In this context, residency and citizenship by investment programs that offer flexibility, friendly environments, and tangible benefits are better positioned to attract this new wave of Asian migration.
The trend indicates a growing preference for countries that promote entrepreneurship, talent, and innovation, rather than those that impose geopolitical barriers or restrictions.
AIM Global is your strategic partner for international investment
The loss of interest from Chinese investors in the United States does not signify a decrease in their migratory drive, but rather a strategic reconfiguration towards destinations that combine stability, openness, and real opportunities.
Spain, Italy, Portugal, and also Latin American countries, such as Chile, represent concrete alternatives today within the new global map of mobility by investment.
AIM Global, with offices in Santiago, Lisbon and Shanghai, has a team of professionals ready to help you find your best international investment option.
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