(Yicai Global) July 18 -- China's outbound direct investment has grown in the first six months this year, showing an increased appetite for leasing and commercial services as well as manufacturing, and adhering to national curbs on irrational investment.

Non-financial direct investment jumped 19 percent to USD57.2 billion in the first half of the year, the commerce ministry released in a report. The investment went to 151 countries and more than 3,600 foreign companies.

Over one-third of these countries were along the lines of the Belt and Road initiative, with a total worth of USD7.4 billion invested, a 12 percent surge since last year.

Some 33 percent of the investment flowed into leasing and commercial services, while manufacturing snatched 16 percent of the money. Mining made up 12 percent, while wholesale and retail sectors got 10 percent of the investment. Real estate, sports, and entertainment sectors had no new ODI projects.

More than 350 new engineering projects were funded, with a total worth of USD90.6 billion. Funded Belt and Road-related plans made up 45 percent of the total value at USD47.8 billion.

Chinese companies launched 140 mergers and acquisitions projects in 41 countries and regions around the world with a total transaction value of USD26.1 billion. These undertakings were primarily involved in the sectors of manufacturing and mining.

Editor: Emmi Laine