The rapid growth of Chinese investment and business activities in the African continent and South/Southeast Asia since the 21^st century has led China to become one of these regions’ most important economic partners. This presents a departure from, for example, the historical African economic links with the West that may have profound political, economic, social and environmental implications for African development. This presentation aims to investigate diverse forms of engagement of the Chinese businesses in the African continent and South/Southeast Asian regions. Drawing on evidence from the construction, mining, and IT industry as well as privately-owned small commercial businesses, the presentation examines the business strategy and human resource management practices adopted by these firms and assess their impact on the development of human resources and industrial relations in the host countries. The presentation also analyses the institutional forces that may influence the Chinese firms’ operational environment. It highlights lessons to be learned for Chinese firms that wish to go global and embed their business in the host country in a sustainable manner.