Several hundred kilometres south of Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province in southwest China, tea and coffee grow in the green hills around Pu’er. As I tasted the tea there, I found myself thinking about a cocoa bean back home in Ghana.
Ghana’s negotiating position will be stronger when it knows what it wants, what it can credibly offer and which commitments advance its interests. That preparation must guide the practical agreements pursued through BRICS relationships.
China–Africa digital cooperation offers significant opportunities, but its outcome is not predetermined. Africa’s digital future will depend on whether access to technology is converted into knowledge, productive capacity and institutional strength. The goal is not technological isolation, but technological agency: the capacity to choose, adapt, govern and increasingly create digital solutions. Cooperation becomes a genuine development partnership when African actors move beyond receiving technologies to shaping how they are designed, applied and developed.
At the 2024 FOCAC Beijing Summit, China and African countries committed to establishing a China–Africa Digital Technology Cooperation Centre and advancing 20 digital infrastructure and transformation demonstration projects. The Centre’s opening in Hangzhou in August 2026 marks a shift from diplomatic intent towards institutional implementation.
The continent possesses an extraordinary share of the world’s critical mineral wealth. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) dominates global cobalt production, while Zambia remains indispensable to copper supply and Zimbabwe occupy an important position in the global lithium supply chain.
China’s zero-tariff policy offers Ghana an opportunity that extends well beyond expanding exports of primary commodities. Its greatest potential lies in attracting investment that transforms raw materials into higher-value manufactured products within the country.
China’s zero-tariff initiative presents Ghana with an important opportunity to expand its exports into one of the world’s largest consumer markets. For a country seeking to strengthen foreign-exchange earnings, create jobs and reduce dependence on a narrow range of commodities, improved access to the Chinese market could be significant.
African countries are moving fast on green finance taxonomies. South Africa published its Green Finance Taxonomy in 2022. Rwanda’s Cabinet approved its own in April 2025. Zambia launched one in December 2025. Kenya became the first African country to set a mandatory adoption timeline. The African Development Bank validated a continental framework designed, in its own words, “by Africans, 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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
China’s zero-tariff initiative is more than a diplomatic gesture—it is a strategic opening that could redefine Ghana’s trade and industrial future. Yet, the ultimate outcome depends on how Ghana manages reciprocity.
President Xi Jinping, articulating China’s global vision of women’s empowerment within the framework of inclusive modernization, and President John Dramani Mahama of Ghana, presenting Africa’s pragmatic approach to gender-responsive governance
Climate change has emerged as one of the most pressing development challenges of our time, threatening economies, livelihoods, and ecosystems worldwide. For Africa — and Ghana in particular — the impacts are acute: extreme weather events, declining agricultural productivity, and rising energy demands are undermining growth and sustainable development. Against this backdrop, Ghana’s commitment to building a climate-resilient, low-carbon economy requires not only domestic innovation but also international cooperation.
At the “Shanghai Cooperation Organization Plus” Summit in Tianjin, President Xi Jinping introduced the Global Governance Initiative (GGI)—a framework aimed at reforming international cooperation in a time of turbulence. The initiative calls for a system grounded in sovereign equality, adherence to international law, multilateralism, a people-centered approach, and practical results.
The quest for sustainable transportation makes electric vehicles (EVs) an appealing alternative to internal combustion engine (ICE) cars, resulting in a growing global EV market. In Africa, Ghana ranks high, being one of the countries with the highest EV adoption rates, dominated by Chinese brands and auto parts.
This article forms part of a knowledge series produced under the Sino-African Green Finance Alliance (SAGFA), a strategic initiative led by the Africa-China Centre for Policy and Advisory (ACCPA) with support from the African Climate Foundation.
Africa’s security future hinges on blending resilience with global partnerships—GSI is a promising tool for such endeavours.
The Chinese government’s effective partnership with the private sector has been central to the country’s economic success through enhancing prosperity, employment, and overall livelihoods.
The evolving balance of influence in Africa reflects broader global realignments. China’s engagement presents substantial economic opportunities.
China’s $51 billion commitment to Africa signifies a progressive approach to sustainability and knowledge transfer, highlighting collaboration rather than simple aid.
Through FOCAC, Africa is not only industrializing but doing so sustainably, setting the stage for a new era of growth driven by green energy, innovation, and collaboration.
What will the future of Africa-China relations look like without the active participation of the youth?
A striking development to emerge from FOCAC 2024 is China’s commitment of $50.7 billion to Africa over the next three years.
Preventing wars is important, but sustaining peace requires tackling the root causes of conflict. By investing in Africa’s infrastructure, education, and governance, and promoting cultural exchange, China is contributing to the creation of a more stable and peaceful continent.
For Africa and other regions of the Global South, China’s strategic initiatives such as GDI, GSI, GCI, and BRI collectively provide valuable development opportunities.
President Samia’s upcoming visit to China for FOCAC reflects Tanzania’s strategic positioning within China-Africa relations
The five principles of peaceful coexistence align well with contemporary initiatives such as China’s vision of building a community with a shared future, UN agenda 2030 and Africa’s Agenda 2063
The journey of FOCAC over the past 24 years exemplifies the strength and potential of collective effort and mutual cooperation. As we look towards the future, the bonds forged through this partnership hold the promise of even greater achievements.
It is safe to say that the FOCAC is far from being mere strategic hype. Instead, it has proven to be a substantial and impactful initiative.
FOCAC has reshaped China-Africa relations through its collaborative framework. It sets an example for new international partnerships, emphasising the importance of shared impact and mutual benefit in global diplomacy
China’s role in African infrastructure development through FOCAC represents a transformative partnership that has reshaped the socio-economic landscape of the continent.
China’s strategic investments and rapid delivery, Russia’s deep-rooted energy expertise, and the potential resurgence of Western engagement all present unique opportunities and challenges.
Fast forward to today, and Ghana, along with other African nations, is considering nuclear power as a solution to its energy woes.
Reaching climate targets has beneficial externalities that go far beyond gaining market share in the green economy. This is what China is showing the world, and lessons need to be learned from them instead of antagonizing them.
FOCAC continues to serve its purpose as a platform for collective discourse on cooperation between Africa and China-Paul Frimpong, ACCPA Executive Director
As the 9th FOCAC meeting approaches in some few months, the forum’s continued evolution and adaptability will be crucial in addressing emerging challenges and ensuring its ongoing relevance and effectiveness in strengthening the partnership between China and Africa.
African agency in the context of Sino-Africa relations refers to the proactive stance taken by African nations and organizations to assert their interests and shape the dynamics of their engagement with China.
Few, if any, in China would worry about an African election and its potential implications for China. However, given the lessons from France’s predicaments and the rising manifestations of anti-Chinese sentiments across Africa, the outcomes of African elections should interest Chinese policymakers in terms of how they may shape China’s relations with Africa moving forward.
Already, China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) aligns with some of the infrastructure goals of AfCFTA, further enhancing cooperation in the fulfilment of the trade agreement.
China’s modernization initiative has been successful in transforming its economy and infrastructure. The Belt and Road Initiative has provided opportunities for many developing countries, including African countries, to benefit from China’s pursuit of modernization.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s recent visit to Africa, amidst the upcoming 9th Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and the 11th Belt and Road Initiative conference, is pivotal for Sino-Africa relations.
Africa-China relations are characterized by both opportunities and challenges, and a better understanding is necessary for informed decision-making and constructive engagement.
Xi Jinping wants to build a global community with a shared future through four global initiatives (4GI’s). What is it about, and what does it entail from China’s perspective?
Questions abound, yet one thing is certain: the world is watching, hopeful yet cautious, eager to see if the BRI will indeed pave the way towards a verdant, sustainable legacy.
This BRI has rekindled a focus and broadened the vistas of cooperation, enveloping infrastructure development, economic coalitions, and a shared aspiration for a synergistic rapport.
For Africa, the BRI, if implemented sustainably and responsibly, has the potential to meet the continent’s long-term development needs
It’s critical to understand that while the main goal of China’s Belt and Road Initiative is to enhance economic cooperation through increased connectivity, it also has the capacity to ignite global peace.
BRI is already delivering infrastructure development across Africa, and the continent has a more positive view of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
In this Sino-African Voices, Mikatekiso Kubayi, a Researcher at the Institute for Global Dialogue at UNISA shared key insights on Sino – African investment relations, BRICS and geopolitics.
In recent years, China’s involvement in infrastructure development across the globe has captured the attention of international observers. Nowhere is this influence more evident than in East Africa, where countries like Kenya and Uganda have become recipients of substantial Chinese investment in infrastructure projects.
After exploring the fundamental principles and strategies behind China’s success, we have gained valuable insights that can guide Africa in shaping a more prosperous and inclusive future.
In recent years, China’s involvement in infrastructure development across the globe has captured the attention of international observers. Nowhere is this influence more evident than in East Africa, where countries like Kenya and Uganda have become recipients of substantial Chinese investment in infrastructure projects.
China has not only emerged as a global economic powerhouse but has also achieved a remarkable feat of lifting a substantial portion of its population out of abject or extreme poverty.
In this Sino-African Voices, Fikayo Akeredolu, who is the China-Africa Programs Officer at the African Climate Foundation shared key insights on Sino – African relations and Climate Change
The forthcoming 15th BRICS Summit, scheduled to take place in South Africa from August 22 to 24, 2023, has generated keen interest and anticipation.
A compelling melody of China’s Global Civilization Initiative- an invitation for cooperation among nations through acknowledgment and respect for disparate cultures.
The Africa-China Centre for Policy & Advisory (ACCPA), a Sino-African research and policy think tank and advisory firm, recently held a Public Forum on Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) as a new paradigm for building global peace and prosperity.
Countries in Africa, like the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), account for some of the world’s largest reserves of critical minerals.
The collaboration between China and Tanzania spans various sectors, each offering unique opportunities for further development – Dr. Rosemary Mnongya
China’s commitment and assistance have aided in improving healthcare outcomes and health systems in Africa – Dr. Hagan Sibiri, Senior Research Fellow, ACCPA
To succeed in Africa, you need to be built for Africa. China has shown itself to be the most reliable partner seeking to build a win-win cooperation with the African continent.
Undoubtedly, the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) is the most impactful engagement framework in the history of China’s relations with Africa.
The Digital Silk Road provides unprecedented opportunities to solidify Africa-China win-win cooperation – Dr. Nancy A. Lohalo, Senior Research Fellow, ACCPA.
Africans ditching the dollar in their dealings with China will ensure enhanced Sino-African trade relations, with both parties benefiting from reduced transaction costs and increased efficiency.
The Belt and Road Initiative has had a significant impact on East African economic growth and industrial transformation.
In recent years, China has been at the forefront of leading global initiatives targeted at creating sustainable peace and prosperity.
The fact is that China has a significant presence in Africa’s extractive industry. Chinese investment is still sustaining the raw extractive export model.
China has increased its involvement in African countries, partnering with them to promote technological advancement and transfer.
China’s demand-driven approach to investment empowers African nations to shape their own destiny, pursuing development at their own pace.
The Global Security Initiative (GSI) is a plan put forward by China to move toward a new security paradigm that puts collaboration ahead of alliances and communication ahead of conflict.
In this Q&A, ACCPA interacted with Kai Xue, Banking, Finance & Outbound M&A Lawyer with DeHeng Law Offices based in Beijing.
To Ghanaians and Africans, the presence of the CIs presents a unique opportunity to understand China from our perspectives rather than through the twisted tales of Western actors.
Jinkang WU shared broader perspectives and key insights on geopolitics, China’s domestic economy, and, more specifically, Africa-China cooperation.
The Sino-African Voices is a series of Q&A on broader issues regarding Africa-China economic, social and political cooperation.
This certainly present an opportunity for African and Ghanaian businesses to resume full cycle trade with China without any limitations.
China has made more investments in
Africa than the next eight largest
lenders combined.
Building infrastructure in Africa is essential for promoting economic growth and raising the standard of living for Africans.
China has made more investments in
Africa than the next eight largest
lenders combined.
The headline numbers are glaring enough. Africa is developing ever deeper ties with China in trade and investment. China has made more investments in
Africa than the next eight largest
lenders combined.
If you are a key follower of Africa-China relations in any form or shape, then you will probably be familiar with the term FOCAC-Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.
The Africa-China Centre for Policy and Advisory is a Sino-African research and policy think tank and advisory firm headquartered in Accra, Ghana.