Despite economic challenges and geopolitical tensions, American fast-food chains are doubling down on their presence in China, enticed by its massive population of 1.4 billion. As 2023 winds down, amidst a backdrop of global brands like Adidas, Apple, and Samsung reassessing their Chinese manufacturing strategies, fast-food giants are making a different kind of bet on China’s consumer market.

KFC China’s parent company recently celebrated the opening of its 10,000th restaurant in China, with ambitious plans to expand further. McDonald’s isn’t far behind, aiming to open an additional 3,500 stores in the next four years. Starbucks, too, is investing heavily, with a $220 million manufacturing and distribution facility in the works — its largest outside the U.S.

This fast-food fervor isn’t quite the picture of foreign investment that Chinese President Xi Jinping may have envisioned, especially as the U.S. tightens exports of high-tech goods to China. It’s a clear signal, though, that despite the tech sector feeling the heat, the allure of China’s vast consumer base remains potent for industries like fast food.

However, overall foreign investment in China has seen a dip, with a net foreign direct investment deficit recorded in Q3 2023. This decline in foreign capital comes at a time when China’s economy is grappling with pandemic disruptions and a property industry crisis. The U.S. and other Western nations’ policies have prompted multinational companies to shift their focus to other regions like Southeast Asia or India.

Despite these shifts, fast-food chains see a silver lining. McDonald’s CEO, Chris Kempczinski, highlighted the “tremendous opportunity” in China, even as other industries navigate away from Beijing’s influence. This sector appears somewhat insulated from the frictions affecting more high-tech industries in the U.S.-China relationship.

Under the Biden administration, the U.S. strategy of reducing reliance on Chinese factories and encouraging companies to diversify their operations continues. Yet, officials have clarified that while “de-risking” is on the agenda, a total economic “decoupling” is not desired.

Amidst this complex backdrop, fast-food franchises find it easier to make expansion decisions. Their operations can be scaled up or down with relative ease compared to more capital-intensive industries. McDonald’s, for instance, notes that a significant portion of its customer loyalty program participants are based in China. KFC and Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen are also expanding, with Popeyes planning to open 1,700 stores in the next decade.

However, the burgeoning market in China isn’t without its challenges. U.S. businesses face uncertainties, including travel advisories and warnings of arbitrary law enforcement practices. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo has even cautioned Chinese leaders that worsening conditions could deter U.S. investments.

While China remains a crucial market for many foreign companies, these developments highlight the nuanced decisions businesses must make. They must balance the lucrative opportunities presented by China’s vast market with the complexities and risks posed by the current geopolitical landscape. For now, though, burgers, lattes, and fried chicken seem to be the order of the day for American fast-food giants in China.