China vows $51bn in investment to deepen economic partnership with Africa

Business a.m.

China has unveiled a $51 billion package of fresh financing for African countries, supporting 30 infrastructure projects and creating at least one million jobs across the continent.

President Xi Jinping confirmed the development during his keynote speech at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit, an international conference promoting collaboration between China and African nations, where he addressed delegates representing over 50 African countries, including Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu.

Outlining the $51 billion financing package, the Chinese leader emphasised that the Chinese economy, valued at $19 trillion, would open its doors even wider to African trade, paving the way for enhanced access to the lucrative Chinese market for African nations.

The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Summit in Beijing sets a three-year agenda for ties between the world’s second-largest economy and the world’s fastest-growing continent.

President Xi outlined his ambitious vision for the future of China-Africa relations, focusing on the development of clean energy infrastructure across the continent.

He also declared China’s readiness to initiate 30 clean energy projects in Africa, as well as provide support for the continent’s nuclear energy aspirations, addressing a longstanding power shortage that has hindered Africa’s broader industrialisation goals.

In addition, President Xi  disclosed that China is geared up to undertake 30 infrastructure connectivity projects in Africa, with the aim of creating a comprehensive China-Africa network that combines land and sea transportation links, enabling the seamless movement of people and goods across the continent and facilitating synchronised development.

“We are ready to assist in developing the African Continental Free Trade Area, and deepen logistics and financial cooperation for the benefit of trans-regional development in Africa,” he added.

President Xi also disclosed that China is poised to allocate 360 billion yuan ($50.72 billion) in financial assistance to African countries. Of this sum, 210 billion yuan will be offered as credit lines to African states, with at least 70 billion yuan earmarked for new investments by Chinese businesses. The remaining funds will be allocated to military aid and other initiatives that support African countries.

The extensive financial package is expected to inject a substantial boost into African economies, foster greater business cooperation between Africa and China, and propel economic progress across the continent.

In the face of a widening economic and diplomatic divide between China and the West, including the United States, the Asian giant is stepping up its efforts to deepen its influence in Africa.

This concerted push comes at a time when China’s economic growth is being affected by issues such as a prolonged housing market slump and a declining population. By investing in Africa’s infrastructure, clean energy, and other sectors, China is attempting to position itself as a key partner and ally on the African continent, even as it faces domestic challenges.

With close to 25 percent of Africa’s exports being sent to China, the Asian nation has firmly established itself as Africa’s largest trading partner, devouring huge volumes of natural resources like minerals, fuels, and metals.

China’s investment in Africa extends beyond trade, as it has also become the continent’s top creditor. From 2006 to 2021, the Asian powerhouse committed $191 billion in financing to African countries, cementing its position as a key economic player on the continent.