We analyze Chinese outward direct investment (ODI) in the farm and processed food sectors between 2001 and 2013. Our findings underscore the importance that assessments of ODI should consider both standard theoretical determinants of cross-border flows, such as GDP and geographical distance, as well as political and institutional factors that affect host country risk. Determinants also differ in their importance dependent upon the specific subsector (farm vs. processed food vs. others) under consideration.