Reflections on China’s Modernization Journey at 105: Perspectives for Africa
As China marks the 105th anniversary of the Communist Party of China, the occasion presents an opportunity to reflect on one of the world’s most consequential modernization journeys. For Africa, the value lies not in replicating China’s path, but in critically examining the experiences, policies and institutions that have contributed to its transformation.
China’s Emerging Sustainability Framework & Africa’s Critical Minerals Future
China has emerged as the dominant player in global critical mineral supply chains, controlling substantial share of extraction, mineral processing, refining, battery manufacturing and electric vehicle production. Today, Chinese companies are among the largest investors in Africa’s mining sector. However, China’s approach to overseas mining is also evolving after years of weak and limited regulation.
Beyond Trade: Can Zero Tariff Trigger Industrialization in Africa?”
The opportunity is real, but its success is not guaranteed. Turning trade advantages into manufacturing capacity, jobs, and economic diversification will require deliberate choices and sustained commitment from all stakeholders.
Zero tariffs have created a new opportunity. Turning it into industrialization will depend on the choices made today.
The Commercial Blind Spot: Why Eswatini Remains Outside China’s Preferential Tariff Framework
China’s decision not to extend preferential tariff treatment to the Kingdom of Eswatini is fundamentally a story of missing infrastructure, not physical roads or ports, but the institutional architecture that makes trade agreements function in practice. At the heart of this impasse lies a simple but consequential reality: China does not maintain an embassy in Mbabane.
China’s Zero Tariff Policy: A New Model of South–South Trade Cooperation?
Effective May 1, 2026, China’s decision to grant zero-tariff access on 100% of taxable goods from 53 African countries marks a significant shift in the landscape of global trade relations. Beyond its immediate implications for China–Africa commerce, the policy stands out as one of the most expansive trade openings within contemporary South–South engagement.
From Market Access to Market Readiness: Making the Most of China’s Zero Tariff Opportunity
On May 1, China’s zero tariff policy for African countries entered full implementation, marking a significant milestone in Africa–China economic relations. For the first time, African exporters have near-complete tariff-free access to one of the world’s largest and most dynamic consumer markets.
From Participation to Positioning: Africa in the New Global Supply Chain Order
Africa stands at a critical juncture in the evolution of global supply chains. The opportunities are real—but they are not automatic. Ultimately, the question is not whether Africa will be included in global supply chains. The question is whether Africa will help define and shape them.
From Agreements to Affection: Re-centering People in Africa–China Relations
Re-centering people in Africa-China relations is ultimately about recognising affection as strategic capital. Affection here does not imply idealisation, but familiarity built through sustained interaction, trust earned through cooperation, and empathy developed through shared experience.
Why People Matter: Reimagining the Future of Africa–China Cooperation
As cooperation between Africa and China deepens and becomes more embedded in African societies, a critical question emerges: What will ultimately determine the depth, legitimacy, and sustainability of Africa–China cooperation in the decades ahead?
Mutual Gains: How Chinese Scholarships Benefit Ghana and China
China’s scholarships have opened many doors for Ghanaian students: language skills, funded study, and easier entry into STEM and technical fields. These scholarships have further strengthened Ghana-China relations and stimulated mutually beneficial outcomes: Ghana gains human capital and capacity, China builds cultural familiarity, and educational influence and recognition.