As a developmental bank in the most populous country in the world, CDB is capable of bringing more change to more people than any other national development bank globally－a significant responsibility, with even larger opportunities.

China Development Bank was established in 1994 as a policy bank under a Special Decree of the State Council, the highest institution in the Chinese Government. As the only policy-oriented bank with ministry status, it reports directly to the State Council and its operations are subject to the regulation and supervision of the People's Bank of China, the central bank of China. The Bank implements the government's economic development policy under the guidance of the State Development and Planning Commission, the State Economic and Trade Commission and the Ministry of Finance(MOF).

The Bank's primary function is to foster economic development of China through direct and indirect financing of key projects and initiatives in the Government's national economic development plan and industry policies. In this role, the Bank directs its lending activities at construction and technological renovation projects involving infrastructure facilities, basic industries and pillar industries in China, such as transportation and energy. It is also a key player in the efforts to develop Central and Western China.

CDB's staff of over 3,300 industry specialists, financial analysts, investment bankers and engineers are bringing financial and management assistance to every company they deal with, everyday, through a variety of programs, projects and a range of advisory services.