Amid Tensions with America and Taiwan, China Increases Military Spending to $245 Billion

China has announced an increase in its defense budget to $245.7 billion by 2025 due to deepening strategic competition with the United States and the Taiwan issue.

According to an official document published by Agence France-Presse on Wednesday, China will increase its defense spending

7.2% in 2025, similar to last year's increase.

The increase in China's defense budget comes amid rapid modernization of the Chinese military and escalating strategic competition with the United States.

Although China has the second largest defense budget in the world, it is relatively low compared to its main strategic competitor, the United States.

According to a report by the Chinese government, China has allocated 1.78 trillion yuan ($245.7 billion) to defense this year. However, these expenditures only amount to a third of the US defense budget.

Reflecting the increase in the defense budget is China's new black shadow of regional hegemony and provocation, and escalating threats toward Taiwan.

However, in a government action report submitted for discussion by the Chinese legislature, China claims that it will support and improve policies and platforms that promote economic activities, cultural exchanges, and cooperation across the Taiwan Strait.