China establishes Yajiang Group for Brahmaputra mega dam

China has formally established China Yajiang Group Corporation Limited, a new state-owned enterprise that will lead the construction of the Medog hydropower project on the Yarlung Tsangpo River, known as the Brahmaputra in India. 

The announcement, approved by the State Council and issued by the State-owned Assets Supervision and Administration Commission (SASAC), places the company under direct central government oversight.

The company’s inauguration ceremony was held on 19 July 2025 in Beijing. Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing, who unveiled the plaque, said the decision was made from a national strategic perspective. He linked the company’s creation to China’s broader goals on energy security, national security, and governance in Tibet.

The Medog project is part of China’s long-planned development of a major hydropower facility near the Great Bend of the Yarlung Tsangpo, just before it enters India as the Brahmaputra River. The dam has drawn attention in India due to potential implications for downstream river flow, water availability, and regional stability.

Zhang called on China Yajiang Group to ensure high construction standards, strengthen ecological protections, and integrate digital management systems. He also directed the company to align closely with CPC leadership and promote a strong internal governance model based on Party direction.

The Medog project is expected to be among the largest hydropower undertakings in China and will likely have transboundary implications.